Modular electric toothbrushes

ABSTRACT

An electric toothbrush having movable and static carriers which independently slidingly engage the receiving member of the toothbrush head within channels defined by the surfaces of the receiving member. Such carriers can be releasably removable to replace or exchange the carriers. Also disclosed is a toothbrush having a unique assembly utilizing a one-piece housing in combination with a movable bristle carrier that is engaged on a receiving member located at the distal end of the toothbrush, and a static carrier such as a brush head tip which is secured thereto. The unitary housing reduces the number of components of the toothbrush and decreases manufacturing costs. The static and movable carriers may be replaced with other carriers and allows a consumer to individually tailor the brush to provide a particular brushing configuration. An electric toothbrush having a particular assembly, bristle configuration, and drive mechanism is disclosed. The assembly, bristle configuration, and drive mechanism are such that operation of the brush is highly efficient and more economical than currently known toothbrushes. Specifically, an electric toothbrush is disclosed comprising a body, a head, and a neck extending therebetween. The head comprises a receiving member and several unique and preferred arrangements of static and movable carriers. The carriers can comprise bristles, and the static bristle carrier(s) can at least partially surround the collection of movable bristle carrier(s). A motor and drive train impart motion to the movable carrier(s).

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 10/730,850filed on Dec. 9, 2003 which is a continuation-in-part of applicationSer. No. 10/274,700 filed on Oct. 21, 2002 which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Applications Ser. No. 60/387,841 filed Jun. 11, 2002; Ser.No. 60/410,865 filed Sep. 13, 2002; and Ser. No. 60/410,556 filed Sep.13, 2002 all of which are herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to electric toothbrushes and moreparticularly, modular electric toothbrushes having interchangeable orreplaceable components and electric toothbrushes having high efficiency.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to electric toothbrushes. Moreparticularly, it relates to an improved electric toothbrush withreplaceable or exchangeable movable and/or static bristle carriers.Although many different electric toothbrushes exists which offerdifferent advantages and characteristics, these characteristics canincrease the costs associated with the toothbrush and can be reflectedin higher retail prices for the product. Accordingly, it would bedesirable to provide an electric toothbrush that was relativelyinexpensive to assemble and produce, but provides the cleaning efficacyand toothbrush characteristics desired by the consumer.

Electric toothbrushes are also known in which certain components of thebrush may be interchanged or replaced with like components from othertoothbrushes or components that are sold separately. For example,toothbrushes having replaceable head and neck assemblies are known inwhich the entire head and at least a portion of the neck may be removedfrom a toothbrush body or its housing, and replaced with another headand neck assembly. U.S. application Ser. No. 09/850,662 teaches anelectric toothbrush having a replaceable brush head. Althoughsignificant advantages can be gained by such a modular system, entiretoothbrush head and neck assemblies are relatively expensive.Additionally, often a replacement of the entire head and neck assemblyis unnecessary when only the bristles are worn. Accordingly, a needexists for an alternative modular design for a toothbrush which can betailored to a consumer's particular needs. For example, a consumer couldexchange and/or replace a portion of the toothbrush head for aparticular task, or if a portion of the toothbrush head was worn.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an electric toothbrush comprising ahandle at a first end of the toothbrush having a motor disposed therein;a neck extending from the handle comprising a receiving member at asecond end of the toothbrush, wherein a plurality of carriers engage thereceiving member, and wherein the carriers comprise one or more staticcarrier(s) and one or more movable carrier(s), and wherein the one ormore static carrier(s) and one or more movable carrier(s) independentlyslidingly engage the receiving member of the toothbrush; and a driveshaft operatively connecting the one or more movable carrier(s) to themotor.

The invention also relates to kits comprising the aforementionedelectric toothbrush and one or more static and one or more movablecarriers selected from the group consisting of, but are not limited to,brush head tip carriers, static bristle carriers, movable bristlecarriers, elastomeric element carriers, oral care composition carriers,and/or dental tool carriers, and/or combinations thereof.

The present invention further relates to a low energy consumptionelectric toothbrush comprising; a housing assembly including a brushhead, a handle, and a neck extending between the brush head and thehandle, the housing defining a hollow interior cavity; a movable bristlecarrier disposed on the brush head; a motor providing a powered rotatingshaft, a drive gear affixed to the shaft, and a power source inelectrical communication with the motor and disposed in the hollowinterior cavity, a crown gear rotatably supported in the hollow interiorcavity and oriented such that the axis of rotation of the crown gear isperpendicular to an axis of rotation of the motor and the drive gear,the crown gear configured and engaged with the drive gear of the motorsuch that the crown gear completes one revolution for a number, from oneto three, of revolutions of the motor, the crown gear including (i) afirst cam member extending from a face of the crown gear, the first camhaving a center offset from the axis of rotation of the crown gear and(ii) a second cam member extending from a face of the first cam member,the second cam member having an axis of rotation co-extensive with theaxis of rotation of the crown gear; a drive shaft having a first end anda second opposite end, the first end engaged with the first cam memberand the second cam member of the crown gear, and the second end engagedwith the movable bristle carrier; a first plurality of bristles retainedon the movable bristle carrier; a second plurality of stationarybristles retained on the brush head; wherein upon operation of themotor, the crown gear is rotated, thereby imparting a reciprocatingmotion to the drive shaft and to the movable bristle carrier disposed onthe brush head.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention may take form in various components andarrangements of components, and in various techniques, methods, orprocedures and arrangements of steps. The referenced drawings are onlyfor purposes of illustrating embodiments, they are not necessarily toscale, and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention.

It is believed that the present invention will be better understood fromthe following description taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the toothbrush in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of a toothbrush head showing a configuration ofvarious bristle types according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing aconfiguration of bristle arrangements according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 is another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing aconfiguration of bristle arrangements according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 is yet another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing aconfiguration of bristle arrangements according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a brush head accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view showing another brush headaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of yet another brush headaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of another brush head accordingto the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cam assembly according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another cam arrangement according tothe present invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a partial assembly of a toothbrushin accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a bottom view of a toothbrush head showing a configuration ofbristle arrangements according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing aconfiguration of bristle arrangements and illustrates a manner ofdesignating locations of certain bristles, according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 15 is another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing aconfiguration of bristle arrangements according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 16 is a bottom view of a brush head according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 17 is a side view of the brush head shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a bottom view of another brush head according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 19 is a side view of the brush head shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another toothbrush in accordance withthe present invention.

FIG. 21 is a partial exploded perspective view of the toothbrushillustrated in FIG. 20, illustrating certain components and theirassembly.

FIG. 21 a is a partial exploded perspective view of an embodiment of thetoothbrush, made according to the present invention, illustratingcertain components and their assembly.

FIG. 22 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating the assemblyof a toothbrush head of the brush shown in FIGS. 21 and 22.

FIG. 22 a is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating theassembly of another embodiment of the toothbrush head.

FIG. 23 is another partial exploded perspective view of the toothbrushhead of FIG. 22 illustrating further assembly of components therein.

FIG. 23 a is another partial exploded perspective view of the toothbrushhead of FIG. 22 a illustrating further assembly of components therein.

FIG. 24 is another partial exploded perspective view of the toothbrushhead of FIGS. 22 and 23, again illustrating further assembly ofcomponents therein.

FIG. 24 a is another partial exploded perspective view of the toothbrushhead of FIGS. 22 a and 23 a, again illustrating further assembly ofcomponents therein.

FIG. 25 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head of thebrush illustrating one possible bristle configuration in accordance withthe present invention.

FIG. 25 a is an end view of the static bristle carrier 1403.

FIG. 26 is an end view of the toothbrush head taken along line 26-26 inFIG. 25.

FIG. 26 a is an end view of the movable bristle carrier 1405.

FIG. 27 is a partial side elevational view of a toothbrush head of thetoothbrush illustrating another bristle configuration in accordance withthe present invention.

FIG. 27 a is an end view of the toothbrush of FIG. 21 a prior toengagement of static and movable bristle carriers.

FIG. 28 is an end view of the toothbrush head shown in FIG. 27 takenalong line 28-28.

FIG. 29 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrushillustrating yet another preferred bristle configuration in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 30 is an end view of the toothbrush head shown in FIG. 29 takenalong line 30-30.

FIG. 31 is an end view of the toothbrush head illustrating anotherbristle configuration in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 32 is an end view of the toothbrush head in accordance with thepresent invention illustrating yet another bristle configuration.

FIG. 33 is an end view of the toothbrush head in accordance with thepresent invention illustrating another bristle configuration.

FIG. 34 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 35 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 36 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 37 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 38 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 39 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 40 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 41 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 42 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 43 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 44 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 45 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush head inaccordance with the present invention illustrating another bristleconfiguration.

FIG. 46 is a planar bottom view of a toothbrush head (without bristles)of the toothbrush according to the present invention.

FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view of the toothbrush head illustrated inFIG. 46, taken across line 47-47.

FIG. 48 is a partial exploded view of the toothbrush in accordance withthe present invention.

FIG. 49 is a partial exploded view of the toothbrush in accordance withthe present invention.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of a portion of the drive mechanism inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 51 is a side elevational view of the portion of the drive mechanismillustrated in FIG. 50.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the brush head and neck of a toothbrushin accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 53 is a planar view of another brush head and neck of a toothbrushin accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 54 is a planar view of yet another brush head and neck of atoothbrush in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 55 is a partially exploded view of an engagement assembly forconverting rotary motion to reciprocating motion, preferably utilized inthe present invention toothbrushes.

FIG. 56 is a top planar view of a gear of the assembly depicted in FIG.55.

FIG. 57 is a side elevational view of the gear shown in FIG. 56.

FIG. 58 is a partial cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 55illustrating the engagement between a drive shaft and the gear.

FIG. 59 illustrates the underside of an end of the drive shaft of theassembly of FIG. 55.

FIG. 60 is a top, planar view of the assembly of FIG. 55 illustratingthe operation of that assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is based upon a discovery that significantcleaning efficacy results from a toothbrush that utilizes a combinationof static bristles, and movable bristles that are powered. Preferably,the movable bristles reciprocate when powered, and most preferably, themovable bristles reciprocate in a direction generally parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the toothbrush. It is contemplated that the movablebristles may also reciprocate in a direction generally perpendicular tothe longitudinal axis. Although reciprocation is the preferred type ofmovement for the movable bristle carrier, the present inventionencompasses other types of movement for the movable bristle carrier. Inall of the preferred embodiments described herein, the various movablebristles are all powered or carried by a single movable component. Thisis described in greater detail herein. The present invention is alsobased upon a discovery of particular patterns or configurations for thestatic bristles, particularly when utilized in conjunction with themovable and powered bristle set. Furthermore, the present inventivetoothbrush, featuring a movable bristle carrier that reciprocates andwhich is at least partially surrounded by an array of static bristles,is particularly well suited for large scale manufacturing. That is, thevarious preferred embodiment brushes described herein are relativelyinexpensive to manufacture as a result of their remarkable simplicityand novel structure. These and other aspects are described herein.

The present invention is also based upon a unique design for a unitarybody or housing for an electric toothbrush that incorporates an integralneck and brush head assembly. The one-piece body or housing greatlysimplifies assembly of the toothbrush and reduces manufacturing costsassociated with the brush. The present invention also provides a novelmodular design for the brush head that enables a user to choose thebristles and/or elements for the brush head. This novel modular designcan be achieved by engaging one or more static carrier(s) and one ormore movable carrier(s) with a receiving member extending from thedistal end of the neck of the toothbrush. A carrier is an element, suchas a plate, which engages the receiving member and which may containstructures or compositions that interact with the oral cavity tissueand/or teeth. The plurality of static and/or movable carriers caninclude, but are not limited to, bristle carriers, brush head tipcarriers, elastomeric element carriers, oral care composition carriers,and dental tool carriers, or any combination thereof. The plurality ofstatic and/or movable carriers can be of many shapes and sizes, so longas the carriers can engage the receiving member of the toothbrush. Inone embodiment the static carrier(s) can be a static bristle carrier,and/or the movable carrier(s) can be a movable bristle carrier. Theplurality of carriers can be brush head tips. Brush head tip carrierscan be located on the distal most portion of the toothbrush head. Thesebrush head tips can constitute a relatively large portion of the brushhead. Certain embodiments of the invention include these aforementionedelastomeric elements or flexible, outwardly extending members that aredisposed on the brush head. The static carrier and the moving carrier ofthe toothbrush head also may include elastomeric elements along with thebristles. The static portion and the moving portion can each includebristles and elastomeric elements, which are used for gently massagingthe user's gums while brushing. The elastomeric elements can be locatedon the perimeter of the static and moving portions or among the bristleson the static and moving portions of the brush head, and can be formedfrom any elastomeric material including, but not limited to, rubber.Elastomeric elements include, but are not limited to, those discussed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 5,987,688, and 5,735,011 that are incorporated herein byreference. The dental tool supported and/or conveyed by the carriersinclude, but are not limited to, gum massaging tools, scraping tools,cleaning tools, flossing tools, polishing cups, rubber picks andapplicators. For instance, elements and/or tools that are specificallydesigned for applying whitening agents to the teeth may be used. Anexample of polishing cups include, but are not limited to, thosediscussed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,930,860 incorporated herein by reference.Additionally, bristle arrangements that provide gum and interdentalstimulation may be used, such as discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,926,897incorporated herein by reference. Oral care compositions include, butare not limited to, compositions disposed on/within a carrier ordelivered by a carrier for the care or treatment of the teeth or oraltissue, and/or other compositions placed on/within a carrier whichfacilitate the treatment and/or care of the teeth and oral tissue.Examples of oral care compositions include, but are not limited to,tartar control compositions, tooth whitening compositions, abrasives,fluoride, and oral sensation compositions such as flavoring. Examples oforal care composition carriers include, but are not limited to, thosedisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,851,551, and applications WO09413870A1,WO9804167A1, incorporated herein by reference.

Before describing the various embodiments of the inventive toothbrush,it is instructive to define the various types of motions that themovable bristles may undergo. As used herein, the term “angular motion”refers to any angular displacement. “Linear motion” is movement along astraight or substantially straight, line or direction. “Primarily linearmotion” is described below. “Curvilinear motion” is movement that isneither completely linear nor completely angular but is a combination ofthe two (e.g., curvilinear). These motions can be constant or periodic.Constant motion refers to motion that does not change direction or path(i.e., is unidirectional). Periodic motion refers to motion thatreverses direction or path. Constant angular motion (i.e., motion thatextends through 360 degrees or more) that is substantially in the formof a circle is referred to as rotary motion. Periodic angular motion ismotion that extends through less than 360 degrees and is referred to asoscillating motion. Curvilinear motions can also be either constant(i.e., unidirectional) or periodic (i.e., reverses direction). Periodiclinear motion is referred to as “reciprocation”. The above-describedmotions can also occur along one or more axes of a bristle carrier.

Furthermore, it is useful to define the term “static” bristles and theterm “movable” bristles. The term static bristles refer to bristles thatare secured or static to the brush head or body of the toothbrush orother component thereof so that the bristles, and specifically, the baseof the bristles, do not move with regard to the toothbrush during use.Restated, static bristles refer to bristles that are fixed to thetoothbrush such that their base or point of attachment does not movewith respect to the toothbrush, and the static bristles are notoperatively connected to the drive shaft. The static bristles can beaffixed to a static carrier. One or more of these static bristlecarriers can then engage the receiving member of the toothbrush, to formthe toothbrush head. Although these carriers and the bristles disposedthereon are static, it is recognized that the ends of the bristles orregions distal from the base of a bristle or group of bristles may moveas a result of flexing of the bristle, but the base of the staticbristle does not move with respect to the toothbrush. Additionally, thestatic carrier on which the bristles can be disposed can be slideablyreleased from the toothbrush. Thus the user can replace and/or exchangethe static carriers as needed. Any movement of the bristles does notresult from an operative connection to the drive shaft and/or motor, asopposed to movable bristles, which do move as a result of an operativeconnection to the drive shaft.

The term movable bristle refers to a bristle in which the base of thebristle moves with respect to the toothbrush, and preferably withrespect to the longitudinal axis of the brush. Generally, thisconfiguration is accomplished by affixing or supporting the base of thebristle to a mounting component, such as a carrier that is movable withrespect to the brush. The one or more movable bristle carrier(s) canthen engage the receiving member of the toothbrush, to complete theformation of the toothbrush head. Restated, a movable bristle is abristle that is movable, and preferably, slideably moves with respect tothe longitudinal axis of the brush as a result of an operativeconnection with the drive shaft.

The novel modular design of the inventive toothbrush can be achieved bythe unique structure of the brush head. As used herein, the phrase“toothbrush head” comprises one or more static carrier(s) and one ormore movable carrier(s), and the receiving member. The one or morestatic carrier(s) and the one or more movable carrier(s) engage thetoothbrush via a receiving member. The receiving member is located atthe distal end of the neck of the toothbrush and retains the carriers.The receiving member can be provided with bristles, or the receivingmember can be devoid of bristles.

In either instance, the head of the toothbrush can be formed by thesliding engagement of the one or more static carrier(s) and the one ormore movable carrier(s) to the receiving member. In one embodiment, thestatic carrier engages the receiving member, and can substantiallysurround the movable carrier. In another embodiment a plurality ofstatic carriers engage the receiving member, such that when theplurality is engaged, the static carriers can substantially surround themovable carrier. Embodiments of the modular design of the presentinvention include toothbrushes wherein the one or more static carrier(s)and the one or more movable carrier(s) comprise bristles. The one ormore static bristle carrier(s) and the one or more movable bristlecarrier(s) independently, slidingly engage the receiving member, locatedat the distal end of the neck of the toothbrush. This receiving membercan provide support for the one or more static bristle carrier(s) andthe one or more movable bristle carrier(s). Additionally, other carrierscan engage the receiving member of the toothbrush including, but notlimited to, dental tool carriers, elastomeric element carriers, oralcare composition carriers, and/or combinations thereof.

Referring to FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment toothbrush 10 according tothe present invention is illustrated. The toothbrush 10 comprises a body30, a head 20 and a neck 40 extending between the body 30 and the head20. The head 20 defines a distal-most end 22. The head 20 and the neck40 generally extend along a longitudinal axis illustrated in FIG. 1 asaxis L. Disposed along the head 20 are a plurality of static bristles 60and a collection of interiorly disposed bristles 50 which are movable asdescribed herein. The movable bristles 50 are supported on and retainedby a movable bristle carrier. The movable bristle carrier may undergo awide variety of motions as noted above.

FIGS. 2-5 and 13 illustrate various configurations for the arrangementof the static bristles and the movable bristles in accordance with theinvention. FIG. 2 is a detail view of the toothbrush 10 shown in FIG. 1and its head 20. As can be seen from FIG. 2, the static bristles 60generally extend entirely around the collection of movable bristles 50.The movable bristles 50 are disposed and situated on a movable bristlecarrier 52. The bristle carrier 52 is preferably movable between twopositions shown in FIG. 2 as position A and position B. Preferably, thebristle carrier 52 may be moved back and forth between position A, inwhich the bristle carrier 52 is proximate the distal-most end 22 of thebrush head 20, and position B shown in FIG. 2 by dashed lines. Mostpreferably, the direction of movement of the bristle carrier 52 as itreciprocates between positions A and B is generally parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the head 20 and neck (not shown in FIG. 2) as notedin FIG. 1 as axis L.

FIG. 3 illustrates another arrangement of bristles along a brush head120 of a toothbrush 100 according to the present invention. In thisembodiment, a plurality of static bristles 160 extend substantiallyaround the periphery or perimeter of a collection of movable bristles150. The movable bristles 150 are supported and retained along a movablebristle carrier 152. The bristle carrier 152 is movable between twopositions A and B shown in FIG. 3. In this preferred configuration, theregion 125 along the brush head 120 does not contain any bristles,either static bristles or movable bristles. As previously described withrespect to FIG. 2, the bristle carrier 152, and thus movable bristles150, preferably may reciprocate between positions A and B. As will benoted from FIG. 3, position A is proximate the distal-most end 122 ofthe brush head 120.

FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush head 220 of atoothbrush 200 according to the present invention. In this embodiment, acollection of static bristles 260 are located at opposite regions of thebrush head 220 around a collection of movable bristles 250. The movablebristles 250 are supported and retained along a movable bristle carrier252. The movable bristle carrier 252 is movable between position A andposition B as shown in FIG. 4. It will be noted that two regions aredefined, between the collection of static bristles 260, which do notcontain any bristles. These regions are designated in FIG. 4 as regions227, 229. As previously noted with respect to FIG. 2, the bristlecarrier 252, and thus the movable bristles 250, preferably mayreciprocate between positions A and B. Position A is proximate thedistal-most end 222 of the brush head 220.

FIG. 5 illustrates yet another preferred embodiment toothbrush head 320of a toothbrush 300 in accordance with the present invention. In thisembodiment, a collection of static bristles 360 extend only partiallyaround a collection of movable bristles 350 supported and retained on amovable bristle carrier 352. The movable bristle carrier 352 is movablebetween two positions shown in FIG. 5 as positions A and B. It will benoted that regions 329, 327, 325 are defined around the periphery of thecollection of movable bristles 350. These regions do not contain anybristles and particularly do not contain any static bristles 360. Aspreviously noted with regard to FIG. 2, the bristle carrier 352, andthus the movable bristles 350, preferably may reciprocate betweenpositions A and B. Position A is proximate the distal-most end 322 ofthe brush head 320.

FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush head 920 of atoothbrush 900 according to the present invention. In this embodiment, acollection of static bristles 960 are located at opposite regions of thebrush head 220 around a collection of movable bristles 950.Specifically, the static bristles 960 are located along the sides of thebrush head 920. Regions 925 and 927 are defined between the groups ofstatic bristles, and preferably as shown in FIG. 13. The movablebristles 950 are supported and retained along a movable bristle carrier952. The movable bristle carrier 952 is movable between position A andposition B as shown in FIG. 13. As previously noted with respect to FIG.2, the bristle carrier 952, and thus the movable bristles 950,preferably may reciprocate between positions A and B. Position A isproximate the distal-most end 922 of the brush head 920.

It will be noted that the preferred bristle configurations are basedupon the movable bristles located generally within a middle region orinterior of the brush head, and static bristles at least partiallysurrounding the medially disposed movable bristles. This is explained ingreater detail herein.

For certain applications, it is preferred that the static bristlessurround 100% of the perimeter or periphery of the collection of movablebristles. In other applications, it is preferred that the staticbristles surround or extend along about 75% to about 100% of theperimeter of the movable bristles. In still other applications, it ispreferred that the static bristles extend along about 50% to about 75%of the perimeter of the movable bristles. In further applications, it ispreferred that the static bristles extend along about 25% to about 50%of the perimeter of the movable bristles. And in other applications, itmay be preferred that the static bristles extend less than 25% aroundthe perimeter of the movable bristles. As noted, the static bristlespreferably extend along at least a portion of the outer periphery of thecollection of movable bristles. It is not necessary for certainembodiments that the static bristles extend continuously about theperiphery of the set of movable bristles. That is, the present inventionencompasses bristle configurations in which the static bristles extendintermittently along or about the outer periphery of the collection ofmovable bristles.

The terms “completely encircling (or encircle)”, “substantiallyencircling (or encircle)”, “partially encircling (or encircle)”, and“partially surrounding (or encircle)” are used herein to refer toparticular configurations of static bristles and their relative locationwith respect to the movable bristles. The term “completely encircling”refers to a configuration in which the static bristles completelyencircle, or are located entirely around, the perimeter of the movablebristles: It will be understood that when static bristles are describedas encircling or extending along the perimeter or portion thereof of themovable bristles, minute or relatively small spaces may exist betweenindividual bristles or groups of bristles. These spaces are on the orderof only 1 to 10 diameters of a typical bristle. The term “substantiallyencircling” refers to a configuration in which the static bristlesextend along at least 80% of the perimeter of the movable bristles.Specifically, substantially encircle includes configurations in whichthe static bristles extend along 80% or more, 90% or more, or 95% ormore of the perimeter of the movable bristles. The term “partiallyencircling” refers to a configuration in which the static bristlesextend along a portion of the perimeter of the movable bristles, andpreferably, extend along a portion that is less than 80% of the distancealong that perimeter. The term “partially surrounding” refers to aconfiguration in which the static bristles partially surround, and donot completely or entirely surround, the movable bristles.

As noted, the movable bristle carrier may undergo a wide variety ofmotions. For example, the movable bristle carrier may undergo angularmotion, linear motion, or curvilinear motion. The movement of thebristle carrier may be constant or periodic. Generally, the preferredmotion for the movable bristle carrier is periodic linear motion orreciprocation.

The movable bristle carrier may be in a variety of forms and shapes. Thepreferred shape for the movable bristle carrier is oval, such asgenerally shown in the referenced figures, such as in FIGS. 2-5. It isgenerally preferred that the movable bristle carrier is elongated inshape, more preferably oval, and most preferably, have proportionsaccording to a certain range of ratios of length to width dimensions.Most preferably, the movable bristle carrier is in the shape of an ovaland has a length (as measured along a major axis of its oval shape) towidth (as measured along a minor axis of its oval shape) of from about4:1 to about 1.2:1. The width of the movable bristle carrier (again, asmeasured along a minor axis of its oval shape), approaches the width ofthe brush head, at that location along the brush head. For thoseembodiments of the present invention in which the bristle carrier isoval-shaped, and in which the bristle carrier moves in a reciprocatingfashion, the carrier is oriented such that movement occurs generallyparallel to the major axis of the oval shape. Preferably, the width ofthe movable bristle carrier is from about 50% to about 90% of the widthof the brush head, and most preferably from about 60% to about 80%.

Referring to FIG. 6, another preferred embodiment of a head 420 for atoothbrush 400 will now be described. The head 420 includes an innerbristle carrier 452 that is slidingly mounted in slots defined along thehead 420. The inner bristle carrier 452 supports and retains a pluralityof movable bristles 450. The inner bristle carrier 452 isreciprocatingly driven in the same general longitudinal direction as thelongitudinal axis of the head 420. The inner bristle carrier 452 andbristles 450 are preferably at least partially surrounded by an array ofstatic bristles shown in FIG. 6 by dashed lines. The toothbrush 400includes an electric motor (not shown) and a drive mechanism, the driveshaft of which is illustrated in FIG. 6 as shaft 460. A cam 470 engagedwith the shaft 460 operatively interconnects the shaft 460 with innerbristle carrier 452. Optionally, the shaft 460 can be supported by shaftsupports 465. The shaft supports 465 may include C or U shaped portions(not shown) that receive the shaft 460. Other means for retaining theshaft 460 in a support are known in the art. The cam 470 can comprise ashaped element or bead, with an appropriate eccentric configuration,placed or molded over and firmly secured to the shaft 460. In onearrangement, the cam 470 is cylindrically shaped with a pair of acutelyangled surfaces 472, 473 which are inclined in the same direction and atthe same angle of inclination, but which are disposed at opposite endsof the cam 470. In other words, the angled surfaces 472, 473 are thesurfaces resulting from a diagonal slice through the cylinder of the cam470. The direction of inclination and angle of inclination can be variedas desired to change the frequency and stroke of the inner bristlecarrier 452. First and second cam followers 454, 456 are provided thatare secured to or extend from the underside 453 of the bristle carrier452. The cam followers 454, 456 are offset or spaced from each other sothat cam 470 is disposed between the cam followers 454, 456 whichstraddle and/or capture the cam 470. The angled surfaces 472, 473 of thecam 470 slidingly engage the free ends of the cam followers 454, 456. Asthe shaft 460 rotates, the first acutely angled surface 472 of the cam470 comes into contact with a surface of the first cam follower 454 anddrives the cam follower, and therefore, the inner bristle carrier 452,away from the end 422 in a direction generally the same as the directionof the longitudinal axis of the head 420. The inner bristle carrier 452is guided by the longitudinally extending slots. As the shaft 460continues to rotate, the cam 470 disengages from the first cam follower454. The second acutely angled second surface 473 of the cam 470 thencomes into contact with a surface of the second cam follower 456 anddrives the second cam follower 456, and therefore the inner bristlecarrier 452, back toward the end 422 of the head 420.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, another embodiment of a toothbrush head 520suitable for use with an electric toothbrush 500 will now be described.The head 520 includes an inner bristle carrier 552 that is slidinglymounted in slots (not shown) defined in the head 520. The inner bristlecarrier 552 supports and retains a plurality of bristles 550. The innerbristle carrier 552 is reciprocatingly driven in the same generallongitudinal direction as the longitudinal axis of the head 520. Thetoothbrush 500 includes a motor (not shown) and a drive mechanism thatincludes a rotating drive shaft 560. The head 520 extends from a neck540 and has a distal-most end 522. A cam 570 included on the shaft 560operatively interconnects the shaft 560 with inner bristle carrier 552.Optionally, the shaft 560 can be supported by shaft supports 565. Theshaft supports 565 may include C or U shaped portions (not shown) thatreceive the shaft 560. Other means for retaining the shaft 560 in asupport are known in the art. The cam 570 is provided in the form of aplurality of bends 572, 573 in the shaft 560. The bends are sinusoidalor curvilinear in nature in that each bend has one or more adjacentarcuate portions. The bends each have an apex and the apexes aredisposed on opposite sides of the shaft 560. A hemispherically-shapedcam follower 554 depends from a bottom surface 553 of the inner bristlecarrier 552 and is disposed between the apexes of the cam 570. As theshaft 560 rotates, a surface 576 of the cam 570 comes into contact witha first surface 555 of the cam follower 554 and drives the cam follower554, and therefore the inner bristle carrier 552, away from the end 522in a longitudinal direction generally the same as the longitudinal axisof the head 520. As the shaft 560 continues to rotate, the cam surface576 disengages from the first cam follower surface 555. As shown in FIG.8, the cam surface 576 then comes into contact with a second surface 556of the cam follower 554 and drives the cam follower 554, and thereforethe inner bristle carrier 552, back toward the end 522. The motion ofthe bristle carrier 552 can be varied by changing the spacing betweenthe apexes 572, 573 and/or the amplitude, shape, or height of the apexes572, 573, length and inclination of the cam surface 576, and inclinationof the surfaces 555, 556 of the cam follower 554.

Referring to FIG. 9, another embodiment of a toothbrush head 620 for anelectric toothbrush 600 will now be described. The head 620 includes aninner bristle carrier 652 that is slidingly mounted in slots (not shown)defined in the head 620. The head 620 includes a distal end 622. Theinner bristle carrier 652 supports and retains a plurality of bristles650. The inner bristle carrier 652 is reciprocatingly driven in the samegeneral longitudinal direction as the longitudinal axis of the head 620.The toothbrush 600 includes a motor (not shown) and a drive mechanismthat includes a rotating drive shaft 660. A cam 670 included on theshaft 660 operatively interconnects the shaft 660 with the inner bristlecarrier 652. Optionally, the shaft 660 can be supported by shaftsupports 665. The shaft supports 665 may include C or U shaped portions(not shown) that receive the shaft 660. Other means for retaining theshaft 660 in a support are known in the art. The cam 670 is provided inthe form of a cylindrically-shaped component 674 placed or molded overand firmly secured to the shaft 660.

As shown in FIG. 10, the cam 670 includes a spiral or helical groove 672defined along the outer surface of the cylindrically shaped component674. The spiral or helical groove 672 preferably extends around thecircumference of the component 674 and spirals about a longitudinal axisof the component 674 which may, for example, coincide with thelongitudinal axis of the shaft 660. The stroke and frequency of themotion imparted to a cam follower 654 (shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) by thecam 670 can be varied by changing the shape and dimensions of the groove672. For example, the groove 672 defined in the component 674 wouldprovide one complete stroke of the inner bristle carrier 652 (i.e., onecycle away from and back toward the end of the head 622) for onerevolution of the shaft 660.

FIG. 11 illustrates an alternate cam 770 having a helical groove 772which is provided in the form of a figure eight. This would only provideone-half a stroke (i.e., only either translation toward or away from theend of the brush head) for one revolution of the shaft 760. A camfollower 754 is disposed in the groove 772 and is engaged to a movablebristle carrier.

Returning to FIGS. 9 and 10, a cam follower 654 depends from a bottomsurface 653 of the inner bristle carrier 652. The cam follower 654 isslidingly received within the groove 672. As the shaft 660 rotates, afirst surface 675 of the spiral groove 672, such as a side wall thereof,comes into contact with a first surface of the cam follower 654 anddrives the cam follower 654 and therefore the inner bristle carrier 652,away from the end 622 of the brush head 620, in a longitudinal directiongenerally the same as the longitudinal axis of the head 620. As theshaft 660 continues to rotate, the cam follower 654 reaches an apex ofthe spiral groove 672 and the first surface 675 of the spiral groove 672disengages from the cam follower 654. A second surface 676 of the groove672, such as the opposite side wall of the groove 672, then comes intocontact with the cam follower 654 and drives the cam follower 674, andtherefore the inner bristle carrier 652, back toward the end 622 of thebrush head 620.

The various reciprocating bristle carriers described herein may alsoutilize a drive mechanism that provides a shaft that rotates.Furthermore, it will be appreciated that other motor and reciprocatingor rotating shaft arrangements can be substituted. For example, U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,226,206; 5,524,312; 5,383,242; 5,465,444; 5,504,959;5,836,030; 4,845,795; 5,404,608; 5,359,747; and 5,617,601, thesubstances of which are incorporated herein by reference, disclose othermotor and reciprocating shaft arrangements that might be suitable. Inaddition, the electric toothbrush of FIG. 9 might be provided with areplaceable head. A suitable arrangement which can be adapted to thepresent invention is disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/850,662,filed May 7, 2001, the substance of which is incorporated herein byreference. Similarly, the drive mechanisms disclosed in U.S. applicationSer. No. 10/114,780 filed Apr. 3, 2002; and U.S. patent Ser. No.10/128,018 filed Apr. 22, 2002, both of which are herein incorporated byreference, are also contemplated for use in conjunction with the presentinvention.

Another preferred embodiment toothbrush using a reciprocating driveshaft is illustrated in FIG. 12. FIG. 12 illustrates an electrictoothbrush 800 comprising a toothbrush head 820, a body or handle 830,and an elongated neck 840 extending therebetween. The drive train, whichincludes various shafts and gears that transmit motion from a motor toan inner bristle carrier 852 is similar to that described in U.S. Pat.No. 6,178,579, the substance of which is incorporated herein byreference. The handle 830 is hollow and includes a motor 802 andbatteries (not shown) for powering the motor. In one embodiment of theinvention the toothbrush comprises a power source of one battery. Inanother embodiment of the invention the toothbrush comprises a powersource of two batteries. A rechargeable power source can be substitutedfor the batteries. The batteries can connect the motor via a wire, ametal strip, direct contact, and/or any combination thereof. The head820 has a longitudinal axis extending therethrough. The longitudinalaxis extends in the same general longitudinal direction as alongitudinal axis of the shaft 860. The inner bristle carrier 852 isdisposed along the head 820, wherein the end 822 is at the distal-mostpoint of the head 820. Although the inner bristle carrier 852 ispreferably oval in shape, other shapes can be utilized. Further, whilethe inner bristle carrier 852 is disposed proximate the end 822 of thehead 820, it will be appreciated that the carrier 852 can be disposedaway from the end 822 and other features, such as static bristles, canbe disposed around at least a portion of the perimeter of the innerbristle carrier 852. In this embodiment, the inner bristle carrier 852only reciprocates and does not oscillate, or perform any otherrotational or oscillatory motion.

A first gear 804 is operatively connected to and powered by the motor802. A second gear 806 is operatively connected to the first gear 804.The rotational axis of the second gear 806 is approximately normal tothe rotational axis of the first gear 804 such that the teeth of thefirst gear 804 mesh with teeth of the second gear 806, thus causing thesecond gear 806 to rotate as the first gear 804 rotates.

A first arm 808 is eccentrically and pivotably connected to the secondgear 806 via a pin 810 or other fastening device. Due to the eccentricconnection, the rotational motion of the second gear 806 is convertedinto a reciprocating motion of the first arm 808. A second arm 812 ispivotably connected to the first arm 808 via a pin 814 or otherfastening device. The shaft 860 is secured, such as by a press fit, tothe second arm 812. The shaft 860 is housed at least partially withinthe neck 840. The shaft 860 is also engaged with a third arm 816. Thethird arm 816 is connected at its terminal end to the inner bristlecarrier 852 via a pin 818 or other fastening device. The terminal end ofthe third arm 816 is offset from the longitudinal axis of the shaft 860so that it is pinned adjacent the outer periphery of the inner bristlecarrier 852. This offset arrangement converts the reciprocating motionof the third arm 816 into a reciprocating motion of the inner bristlecarrier 852, wherein the inner bristle carrier 852 reciprocates about anaxis approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 860.

While various brush head embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated for simplicity with tufts or groups of bristles that extendin a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis ofthe head from which they extend, it is contemplated that the bristlesmight be arranged differently to complement or further enhance thestatic bristles or the motion of the movable bristles. Some or all ofthe bristles might extend in a direction which forms an acute angle witha top surface of a bristle carrier, and may extend in a forward orrearward direction. In another embodiment, some of the bristles mightextend outwardly away from the head, in another direction, again formingan acute angle with respect to the top surface of the bristle carrier.Elastomeric elements or massaging bristles or bristles of varying heightmight also be used, such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. Des. 330,286,and Des. 434,563, the substances of which are incorporated herein byreference. Other preferred bristle arrangements suitable for use includethose arrangements described in whole or part in U.S. Pat. Nos.6,006,394; 4,081,876; 5,046,213; 5,335,389; 5,392,483; 5,446,940;4,894,880; and International Publication No. WO99/23910; the substancesof which are incorporated herein by reference.

The electric toothbrushes of the present invention can be provided withany combination of bristle or elastomeric tip types, dimensions,combinations, angles and arrangements. Tufts of bristles may alternatein height. By “tuft”, herein, is meant a set of one or more bristlesfastened to the brush at a common point. In one embodiment a pluralityof tall tufts and a plurality of shorter tufts are disposed along thebrush head. The difference in length between the tall tufts and theshorter tufts is between about 0.5 mm and about 2.5 mm in one embodimentand between about 1 mm and about 2 mm in other embodiments. The tall andshort tufts of bristles can be provided with different characteristics.For example, the tall tufts of bristles may be relatively soft forgently cleaning and massaging gums of a user while shorter tufts ofbristles may be somewhat firmer for interdental cleaning (or viceversa). This arrangement allows the longer (and typically softer)bristles to be pressed, bent and deflected against the gums of the userbefore the shorter (and typically firmer) bristles contact the teeth andgums of the user. Therefore, for example, soft bristles can be appliedwith more force while stiffer (and perhaps less comfortable) bristlesare applied with less force.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the present invention provides abristle configuration in which the movable bristles, i.e. thosesupported by and secured to the movable bristle carrier, have a totalbristle length that is less than the length of the static bristles thatat least partially encircle or extend alongside the movable bristlecarrier and bristles secured thereto. A further variation of thispreferred bristle configuration features a movable bristle carrier thatis slightly elevated above the outer surface of the head such that thedistal ends of the movable bristles are approximately at the same heightas the longer static bristles extending from the outer surface of thehead. Generally, by utilizing movable bristles that have a relativelyshort length, the distance or stroke of the movable bristle carrier(when undergoing a reciprocating motion) is less than if longer bristleswere used. A shorter stroke generally leads to decreased powerrequirements. This is beneficial since battery demands are then reduced,which may further promote manufacturability and commercialability of theresulting toothbrush. Moreover, by utilizing relatively short lengthbristles for the movable bristles, and longer bristles for the staticbristles, a greater proportion of the brushing load is assumed by thestatic bristles. This generally further reduces power demands on themotor and drive mechanism of the toothbrush.

Bristle stiffness is also a parameter that has been found to affectbrushing efficacy, power requirements of the preferred toothbrushesdescribed herein, and overall performance of the toothbrush. Thisparameter is particularly important to consider with regard to bristlelength or height. For instance, for certain applications, it ispreferable to utilize relatively stiff and short bristles on the movablebrush head component in order to reduce the amount of travel by thebrush head component.

The bristles, collectively, have a bristle stiffness which can becharacterized numerically by the following equation:

${{Bristle}\mspace{14mu} {Stiffness}} = {\frac{D^{2}E}{X^{2}}*\frac{N^{30}}{1 \times 10^{6}}}$

Where;

D=bristle diameter, in inches

E=modulus of elasticity of the bristle material when wet, e.g. for nylonthis is a constant, 460,000 psi

X=average bristle length across the head of the brush in inches

N=total number of bristles on brush head

The bristle stiffness for brushes of the present invention, asdetermined by the above equation, preferably ranges from about 0.2 toabout 0.8. However, the present invention electric toothbrushes mayutilize bristles having stiffness values outside of this preferredrange.

The initial stiffness calculation,

$\frac{D^{2}E}{X^{2}}$

for an individual bristle is a measure of the pressure produced by theminimum force required to deflect a single bristle according to TheStiffness of Toothbrushes, D. W. MacFarlane, Brit. Dent. Jour., Oct. 5,1945, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Bristlestiffness is obtained by multiplying this single bristle stiffness valueby the total number of bristles on the brush head. The factor1.times.10.sup.6 used in the denominator of the foregoing equation is anarbitrarily selected constant which reduces the overall bristlestiffness value to reasonably small numbers for ease of comparison. Adetailed discussion of bristle stiffness is presented in U.S. Pat. No.5,511,275 herein incorporated by reference.

It can be seen from the foregoing noted equation that generally,stiffness may be increased by increasing the number of bristles.Applying this equation to an individual tuft of bristles suggests thatthe stiffness of an individual tuft of bristles may be tailored byincreasing or decreasing the number of bristles within that tuft, i.e.the tuft density. This technique can be used to readily provide a brushhead bristle configuration having unique and selectively tailoredbrushing characteristics.

Another aspect of the preferred embodiment toothbrushes described hereinrelates to bristle or tuft density, and particularly, in combinationwith bristle size and material. Bristles for use herein can be made ofany of the materials well known in the art. Suitable bristle materialsherein include polyester and nylon, such as Dupont Tynex7 612 andStylon7 612 from STP. Suitable types of nylon include, but are notlimited to Nylon 6/6, Nylon 10/10, and Nylon 12/12. The bristles arepreferably of circular cross-section but can also be of othercross-sections including, but not limited to, rectangular, hexagonal andtrilocular. Furthermore, the diameter and length of the bristles canvary within the usual dimensions known by a person skilled in the art.In preferred embodiments the bristles are of circular cross-section witha diameter of from 0.1 to 0.25 mm and length of from 7 to 15 mm,preferably 9 to 12 mm, with each tuft comprising from about 10 to about50 bristles. The total number of bristles in the head portion of brushesof the present invention is preferably from about 1,200 to about 5,000,and even more preferably from about 1,600 to about 3,500. In suchembodiments, each tuft is generally circular with a diameter of fromabout 1 to about 2 mm. It is also contemplated to utilize bristlesand/or tufts of bristles having different diameters or spans together ona brush head.

Fastening of the bristle tufts to the brush head can be done using anyof the methods known in the art, such as fusion, stapling and injectionmolding. Preferred processes herein are stapling and fusion. Each tufthas a base and a free end, the free ends of the tufts forming theworking surface which is used to clean the teeth. As used herein, the“base” of the tuft is that part of the tuft at which it meets the faceof the brush head or movable bristle carrier. It will be understood thata portion of the tuft extends below the base into the brush head orcarrier, for the purpose of anchoring the tuft into the head or carrier.It is preferred for the head to comprise pre-molded tuft holes for thepurpose of accommodating that portion of the tuft in this way. The tuftholes can be of any section including square and rectangular but arepreferably circular. Their depth and diameter will be chosen by oneordinarily skilled in the art to suit the tufts to be inserted therein.Bristles inserted into a common tuft hole are considered to be fastenedat a common point and to be part of the same tuft.

The length of the brush head is measured along the longitudinal axis ofthe toothbrush and generally from the distal end of the brush head to alocation on the head just touching the tuft or row of tufts nearest thehandle at the points of their base closest to the handle. Generally thisbrush head length is in the range from about 15 to about 35 mm, andpreferably from about 20 to about 30 mm.

The length of the entire toothbrush is measured along the longitudinalaxis of the toothbrush and generally from the distal end of thetoothbrush head to the proximal end of the toothbrush handle, includingthe end cap. Generally this toothbrush length is greater than about 10cm, about 12 cm, about 14 cm, about 16 cm, about 18 cm, and/or less thanabout 20 cm, about 22 cm, about 24 cm, about 26 cm.

It is most preferred that the bristle or tuft density on the movablebristle carrier is higher than the bristle density of the groups orregions of static bristles.

The present invention also provides several particularly preferredconfigurations of static bristles. The preferred configurations utilizea specific number of rows in designated regions of the brush head. Thesepreferred configurations have been found to provide reduced load andwear on bristles that are disposed within the interior of the brushhead, and particularly, the bristles that are supported on and by amovable bristle carrier. FIG. 14 illustrates a preferred configurationfor a group of static bristles disposed on a brush head 1020 of atoothbrush 1000. In this particular configuration, at least a single rowof bristles encircle or substantially encircle the interior region ofthe brush head, i.e. the location in which the movable brush head isdisposed. Specifically, the various preferred configurations for thestatic bristles 1060 may be conveniently described by referring tovarious regions of the brush head as sectors, and describing thepreferred arrangements of static bristles in each of those sectors. FIG.14 illustrates a brush head 1020 having a centrally located sector C(within which a movable bristle carrier resides), that is surrounded bysectors D, E, F, and G. Sectors D and E are defined along the lateraland opposite sides of the brush head. Specifically, sector D is locatedbetween a first side 1031 of the brush head and sector C. Sector E islocated between a second side 1033 of the brush head and sector C.Sector F is located between the first and second sides 1031 and 1033 ofthe brush head 1020, and a distal-most tip or end 1022 of the brush head1020 and sector C. Sector G is defined between the first and secondsides 1031 and 1033 of the brush head 1020, and the sector C and a neck1040. Each sector in which static bristles may be located, may contain acertain number of rows of static bristles as follows. Before addressingthe number of rows each sector preferably contains, it is instructive todefine what is meant by a “row” of static bristles. A row of bristles isdefined herein as an array or grouping of bristles that extendsgenerally along a line or in a certain direction. Rows in sector Dpreferably extend in a direction that is generally parallel with theside 1031. Similarly, rows in sector E preferably extend in a directionthat is generally parallel with the side 1033. Rows in sector F mayextend in several fashions as follows. Rows in sector F may extend alongan arc or other curved line generally following the curvature of sides1031 and 1033 as the sides approach the distal end 1022 of the brushhead 1020. Alternatively, rows in sector F may extend in a directionthat is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the brushhead 1020 and the neck 1040. This latter preferred configuration of rowsis depicted in FIG. 14. Rows in sector G may extend along an arc orother curved line; such as extending along a line following the outerperiphery of sector C. Alternatively, rows in sector G may extend in adirection that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis ofthe brush head 1020 and the neck 1040. This latter preferredconfiguration of rows in sector G is depicted in FIG. 14, and such rowsare preferably parallel to the rows in sector F.

The preferred number of rows of static bristles in sectors D, E, F, andG ranges from 0 to 4 or more. However, certain preferred combinations ofrows are particularly preferred in accordance with the presentinvention. These particularly preferred combinations are set forth inTable 1:

TABLE 1 Preferred Configuration for Rows of Static Bristles BristleConfiguration Number of Rows in Sector Identifier D E F G a. 1 1 1-3 1b. 1 1 1-3 2 c. 2 2 1-3 1 d. 2 2 1-3 2 e. 0 0 1-3 1 f. 0 0 1-3 2 g. 1 10 0 h. 2 2 0 0

FIG. 13, as previously noted, illustrates a preferred configuration forthe static and movable bristles. In this configuration, rows of staticbristles are located along opposing sides of the movable bristlecarrier. Within each row are groups or tufts of bristles. Preferably,the number of rows of bristles along each side of the bristle carrierranges from 1 to 6. Most preferably, the number of rows on each side ofthe movable bristle carrier is either 1 or 2-6.

FIG. 15 illustrates one of the preferred static bristle configurationsnoted in Table 1 (bristle configuration identifier a). Specifically,FIG. 15 depicts a brush head 1120 of a toothbrush 1100 having aplurality of static bristles 1160 arranged in a predetermined number andcombination of rows. It will be appreciated that although the rowsdepicted in FIG. 15 are shown as generally straight or linear,particularly in sectors F and G, the rows may follow the shape orcurvature of the outer periphery of the brush head 1120 such asextending along a portion of the sides 1131 and 1133.

Within each sector of tufts, the distance between the bases ofneighboring tufts is less than 1.3 mm, preferably from 0.6 to 1.2 mm,and more preferably from 0.8 to 1.1 mm. Distances between the bases ofthe tufts, as referred to herein are measured from tuft edge to tuftedge along a straight line drawn between tuft centers along thebristle-bearing face. Distances between the free ends of the tufts, asreferred to herein, are measured from tuft edge to tuft edge along astraight line drawn between tuft centers, parallel to thebristle-bearing surface, from the free end of the shorter tuft. Unlessspecifically defined otherwise, distances between tufts refer todistances between neighboring tufts. By “neighboring tuft” is meant theclosest nearby tuft.

The distance between the bases of neighboring tufts in adjacent groups,that is, measured across the gap between groups, is in the range fromabout 1.3 mm to about 5 mm, preferably from about 1.5 to about 3.5 mm,more preferably from about 1.7 to about 3 mm. There can be somevariation across individual pairs of tufts but all pairs, where themembers of each pair are in different groups will be at least 1.3 mmapart at their bases.

By having a relatively large distance between tufts in adjacent groups,the groups of tufts are able to operate independently of each other.That is, tufts from one group do not substantially obstruct tufts froman adjacent group. This allows tufts on the margins of the groups, inparticular, to penetrate better into the interproximal gaps and othercrevices. Nevertheless, a relatively high, overall density of tufts onthe brush head is maintained by the relatively small distance betweentufts within groups. This, in particular, provides for good bristlecoverage on individual tooth surfaces.

Additional aspects and parameters of bristles and tufts are described inU.S. Pat. No. 6,314,605 herein incorporated by reference.

Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 16 and 17,which utilizes one or more elastomeric elements. The head of an electrictoothbrush as described herein is illustrated. The remaining portion ofthe brush, including the handle, motor, etc. is the same as describedfor any of the previously described embodiments. As shown in FIG. 16, ahead 1216 includes a longitudinal axis L, a circular or moving portionor brush head 1220 and a static portion or region 1222. The head 1216 islocated adjacent a first end 1228 of an elongated body portion. Thestatic portion or portions 1222 is located on opposite sides of themoving portion 1220. The moving portion 1220 is located at the center ofthe brush head 1216. The circular portion 1220 rotates, swivels,oscillates or reciprocates about an axis approximately normal to thelongitudinal axis L of the brush head. The circular portion 1220 mayrotate 360 degrees or partially rotate or oscillate or reciprocate in aback and forth manner.

The moving portion 1220 includes bristles 1224 and elastomeric elements1225. The static portion 1222 includes bristles 1226 and elastomericelements 1227. The elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 massage the gumswhile the user simultaneously brushes his or her teeth. The elastomericelements 1225, 1227 can be made from a rubber, soft plastic or similarmaterial. The elastomeric elements are preferably formed from anelastomeric material. The elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 extendessentially perpendicularly from the head 1216 as measured along thelongitudinal axis L. In the preferred embodiment the elastomericelements 1225, 1227 are located around the perimeter of the circularportion 1220 and the static portion 1222, however it is to be understoodthat the elastomeric elements can be located anywhere among the bristlesof the moving portion 1220 and the static portion 1222. The length ofthe elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 is approximately the same length asthe bristles 1224, 1226. The elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 may extendslightly above, slightly below or to the same height as the bristles1224, 1226.

In a further preferred embodiment of the electric toothbrush havingelastomeric elements as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a head 1386 includes alongitudinal axis L, a circular or moving portion or brush head 1306, astatic portion of brush head 1302, a first end 1304 and a second end1300. The first end 1304 is located adjacent to the first end 1382 ofthe elongated body. The second end 1300 is located opposite the firstend 1304. The moving portion 1306 is preferably located at the secondend 1300 of the brush head 1386. The static portion 1302 is preferablylocated at the first end 1304 of the brush head 1386 adjacent to themoving portion 1306. However, it is to be appreciated that the movingportion 1306 and the static portion 1302 can be arranged in differentorientations. The moving portion 1306 can rotate, swivel, oscillate orreciprocate about an axis approximately normal to the longitudinal axisL of the brush head 1386.

The moving portion 1306 includes bristles 1310 and elastomeric elements1311. The static portion 1302 includes bristles 1312 and elastomericelements 1313. The elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 massage the gumswhile the user brushes his or her teeth. The elastomeric elements 1311,1313 can be made from a rubber, soft plastic or similar material. Theelastomeric elements are preferably formed from an elastomeric material.The elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 extend essentially perpendicularlyfrom the head 1386 as measured along the longitudinal axis L. In thepreferred embodiment the elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 are locatedaround the perimeter of the moving portion 1306 and the static portion1302, however it is to be understood that the elastomeric elements canbe located anywhere among the bristles of the moving portion 1306 andthe static portion 1302. The length of the elastomeric elements 1311,1313 is approximately the same length as the bristles 1310, 1312. Theelastomeric elements 1311, 1313 may extend slightly above, slightlybelow or to the same height as the bristles 1310, 1312.

The present invention is also based upon a unique design for a unitarybody or housing for an electric toothbrush that incorporates an integralneck and brush head assembly. The one-piece body or housing greatlysimplifies assembly of the toothbrush and reduces manufacturing costsassociated with the brush. The present invention also provides a novelmodular design for the brush head that enables a wide array of bristlesets to be used in conjunction with the toothbrush.

Referring to FIG. 20, one embodiment of the inventive toothbrush 1400 isillustrated. The toothbrush 1400 comprises a body 1480, a head 1433 andan intermediate portion or neck 1440 extending between, and integrallyformed with, the body 1480 and the head 1433. Movably retained on thehead 1433 are a collection of bristles 1450 which are supported on amovable bristle carrier described in greater detail herein. Alsodisposed on the head 1433 are a collection of static bristles 1460.Preferably, the static bristles 1460 extend around the periphery of thehead 1433. The static bristles 1460 are supported and retained by thehead of the toothbrush 1433 are described and illustrated in greaterdetail herein.

FIG. 21 is a partial exploded view of an embodiment of the toothbrush1400 shown in FIG. 20. FIG. 21 illustrates an assembly and configurationof components utilized in the toothbrush 1400 wherein the separatestatic and movable bristle carriers independently engage the receivingmember to form the head of the toothbrush. The static and movablebristle carriers can engage the receiving member independently in eitherthe same channel or within separate channels. FIG. 21 illustrates thetoothbrush 1400 which further comprises an end cap or base 1482 whichsnaps on or is otherwise releasably secured to the end of the body 1480.The end cap or base 1482 may be provided in a variety of differentshapes and configurations including, but not limited to, round, oval,square, and/or rectangular. The body 1480 also includes a region adaptedfor retaining a switch or other actuator assembly 1486 for controllingoperation of a motor, battery, and drive train or mechanism (not shown)preferably disposed in the body 1480 of the toothbrush 1400. This switchregion is illustrated in FIG. 21 as region 1484. The switch or actuator1486 is received and retained at region 1484. The body 1480 provides ahollow interior cavity or chamber in which is disposed the motor anddrive mechanism. Upon operation, the drive mechanism preferably providesa drive shaft that reciprocates in a direction generally parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the toothbrush 1400. Referring to the receivingmember 1420 of the toothbrush 1400 in FIG. 21, it will be noted that thereceiving member is shown without any bristles 1450,1460 (as shown inFIG. 20). This is to more clearly illustrate assembly of the toothbrush1400. It can be seen that one face of the receiving member 1420 isconfigured so as to include a generally flat surface 1422 which definesa plurality of mounting locations or apertures 1424 for the staticbristles 1460. Preferably this flat region 1422 and its plurality ofapertures 1424 extend about the outer periphery of the receiving member1420 as shown in FIG. 21. Most preferably, this flat region 22 extendsin a U-shape as shown in FIG. 21. Defined along the interior or medialregion of the receiving member 1420 is a receiving surface or channel1425 generally extending between two inwardly facing receiving surfacesor channels 1426 and 1427. These channels are generally in pairs and aredefined by surfaces 1425, 1426, and 1427 are generally sized so as toreceive components 1452 and 1430 as follows.

The embodiment of the toothbrush 1400 comprises a movable bristlecarrier 1452 which, upon engagement with the receiving member, isretained along the receiving member 1420 and preferably within a pair ofchannel defined by surfaces 1425, 1426, and 1427 of the receivingmember. Movable bristle carriers 1452 defines a plurality of apertures1454 as shown in FIG. 21. The bristle carriers 1452 also defines anaperture 1453 that is sized and adapted to receive a pin or other memberfor engagement with the drive mechanism (not shown) disposed in the body1480 and neck 1440 of the toothbrush 1400. The present inventionincludes other engagements between the movable bristle carriers 1452 anda drive shaft, such as but not limited to, a snap type engagement. Thetoothbrush 1400 further comprises a static carrier, such as brush headtip 1430 which, after assembly of the movable bristle carriers 1452 onthe head 1433, may also be received and secured along the head 1433. Thebrush head tip 1430 also defines a plurality of apertures 1434 adaptedfor retaining a plurality of static bristles 1460 as shown in FIG. 20.

FIGS. 22 to 24 illustrate a sequence of assembly of the movable bristlecarriers 1452 and the brush head tip 1430 with the receiving member 1420to form the head 1433 of the embodiment of the toothbrush 1400.Specifically, FIG. 22 illustrates the receiving member 1420 and neck1440 of the embodiment of the toothbrush 1400. The receiving member 1420is oriented to receive the movable bristle carriers 1452. Specifically,the bristle carriers 1452 can preferably slidingly engage the toothbrushhead within the channel defined by the surfaces 1425, 1426, and 1427 inthe receiving member 1420. The head of the toothbrush 1433 includes apassage 1428. The passage 1428 provides access between the head 1433 ofthe toothbrush and the interior of the body 1480 and neck 1440. Thispassage 1428 can be adapted to enclose and retain a shaft or othercomponent of a drive mechanism. The distal end of the drive shaft (notshown) can be secured to the movable bristle carriers 1452 such as byattachment at aperture 1453 of the carriers 1452. Accordingly, thebristle carriers 1452 can be oriented within the pairs of channelsdefined on the receiving member 1420 such that the aperture 1453 isproximate the passage 1428. As previously noted, a snap-fit connectionmay be utilized between the bristle carriers 1452 and the distal end ofthe drive shaft.

FIG. 23 illustrates the movable bristle carriers 1452 slidingly engagedwithin the head 1433 of the embodiment of the brush 1400. Afterengagement of the movable bristle carriers 1452 to the receiving member1420, the brush head tip 1430 may be secured along the distal end of thereceiving member 1420. The brush head tip 1430 preferably is alsoslidingly engaged within the receiving member 1420, and specificallywithin the channel defined by the surfaces 1425, 1426, and 1427. One ormore retaining grooves or channels are preferably defined along theouter surfaces of either the tip 1430 or the channel defined by thesurfaces 1425, 1426, and 1427 within which outwardly extendingprojections defined on an opposing surface, reside to secure the tip1430 within the receiving member 1420. A wide array of channelconfigurations may be utilized in accordance with the present invention.Although a channel and corresponding channel components are used toassist in retaining the movable bristle carriers to the brush head, itis contemplated that other retaining assemblies or configurations may beutilized. As previously noted, the present invention toothbrushes arenot limited to a particular motion or direction of motion for themovable bristle carriers.

FIG. 24 illustrates final assembly of the tip 1430 along the distal endof the receiving member 1420. It will be appreciated that the variouscomponents noted in these figures, would include the bristles 1450,1460.The bristles have been omitted from these figures to more clearlyillustrate assembly of the primary components of the toothbrush 1400 andspecifically along the receiving member 1420 and the toothbrush head1433. It will be further appreciated that the brush head tip may beformed in a variety of shapes and configurations. It may in someinstances, be preferred to provide a brush head tip having an arcuate orU shape. Or, the tip may be formed so as to constitute a relativelylarge portion of the brush head. Or, the arcuate or U shape maysubstantially surround the movable bristle carriers.

FIG. 21 a is a partially exploded view of another embodiment of thetoothbrush made according to the present invention. FIG. 21 aillustrates an assembly and configuration of components utilized in theembodiment of the toothbrush 1401. It can be seen that the head of thetoothbrush comprises a receiving member, and bristle carriers. Theplurality of bristle carriers are shown without bristles to more clearlyillustrate the assembly of the toothbrush 1401. FIG. 22 a shows that oneface of the bristle carriers is configured so as to include a generallyflat surface 1435 which defines a plurality of mounting locations orapertures 1437 for the bristles to be inserted. The receiving member1431 as shown in FIGS. 21 a-24 a of the toothbrush is an extension fromthe neck, which provides surfaces that the bristle carriers can engage.

In this embodiment of the toothbrush the head comprises the receivingmember 1431 the movable bristle carrier 1405 and the static bristlecarrier 1403. The receiving member 1431 is configured so as to include agenerally flat surface 1439 shown in FIG. 21 a. This generally flatregion preferably contains guiding elements, which engage and retain thebristle carriers. Examples of guiding elements include, but are notlimited to pairs of channels 1411 and 1413 as shown in FIGS. 21 a and 27a, and rails 1407 and 1419 as shown in FIGS. 25 a and 26 a. The staticbristle carriers and the movable bristle carriers can independently,slidingly engage the pairs of channels 1411 and 1413 with rails 1407 and1419 respectively. While the static and movable bristle carriers areillustrated herein as independently engaging separate channels it iscontemplated that the static and movable bristle carriers canindependently engage the same channel(a). The channels are defined bythe surface of the receiving member 1431 and are generally sized so asto receive rails 1407 and 1419, as shown in FIGS. 22 a to 24 a. Also, inanother embodiment of the toothbrush, the brush head comprises areas tosnap (not shown) or otherwise removably attach the movable 1405 andstatic bristle carriers 1403.

The embodiment of the toothbrush 1401 comprises one or more movablebristle carrier(s) 1405 which engage the receiving member 1431,preferably within a pair of channels 1411 defined by the surfaces of thereceiving member. The surfaces of the movable bristle carriers can serveas a guide to direct and engage the movable bristle carriers within thechannels defined by the surfaces of the receiving member 1411.Preferably these guides are rails 1407 sized to fit the channels 1411.The guide can be any shape sized to fit the channels defined by thesurfaces of the receiving member, including but not limited to I-shaped,T-shaped, C-shaped, and/or U-shaped. The guide shown in FIG. 26 a is aT-shaped rail 1407. Preferably, the movable bristles are substantiallyencircled by static bristles disposed on the static bristle carrier1403. To form this preferred toothbrush head the one or more staticbristle carrier(s) 1405 engage the receiving member, preferably within apair of channels 1413. The surfaces of the static bristle carriers cancomprise guides such as rails 1419 sized to fit the pair of channels1413. Rails 1419 direct and engage the static bristle carriers withinthe pair of channels 1413 to form the head of the toothbrush.Additionally, the engagement of the static and/or movable bristlecarriers to the receiving member to form the head of the toothbrush canbe releasably removable so that the bristle carriers can be replaced orexchanged for new or different bristle carriers.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21 a-27 a the head of the toothbrushcan be formed by the bristle carriers engaging the receiving memberwithin pairs of channels such as pair 1411 and pair 1413 defined by thesurfaces of the receiving member 1431 which extends from the toothbrushneck. The receiving member is devoid of bristles prior to the engagementof the bristle carriers. Preferably, the static 1403 and movable 1405bristle carriers independently, slidingly engage the receiving memberwithin separate channels, while in a nested arrangement. This nestingarrangement can be formed by the capturing of the movable bristlecarrier within the aperture 1451 of the static bristle carrier (FIGS. 22a-24 a). Preferably the static bristles substantially encircle themovable bristles. Although the bristle carriers are in a nestedarrangement 1423, the bristle carriers remain separate, as the bristlecarriers lack permanent association with each other. In one embodimentthe nesting arrangement 1423 is achieved by slidingly engaging the oneor more movable bristle carrier(s) within an aperture 1451 of the one ormore static bristle carrier(s), and then slidingly engaging the nestedbristle carriers with the receiving member extending from the neck ofthe toothbrush (FIGS. 22 a-24 a). Although the bristle carriers engagethe receiving member simultaneously, the movable and static bristlecarriers engage the receiving member independently of each other. Thehead of this embodiment of the toothbrush is formed once the bristlecarriers, in a nested arrangement, engage the receiving member (FIG. 23a). This independent engagement (shown in FIGS. 22 a-27 a) is achievedby the static bristle carrier engaging the receiving member within pairof channels 1413 defined by the surfaces of the receiving member viarail 1419 defined by the surfaces of the static bristle carrier 1403 andthe movable bristle carrier engaging the receiving member within pair ofchannels 1411 defined by the surfaces of the receiving member via rail1407 defined by the surfaces of the movable bristle carrier 1405. Itremains possible to separate the nested bristle carriers until connectedto the receiving member, because of the lack of permanent association.This facilitates the reciprocating movement of the movable bristlecarriers, when the movable bristle carriers are operatively connected tothe drive shaft 3205. This nesting arrangement allows the movablebristle carriers to be substantially encircled by static bristles, butremain movable upon operation of the toothbrush. More than one movablebristle carrier can be nested within the static bristle carriers.Additionally, more than one static bristle carrier can be used tosubstantially encircle the movable bristle carriers. Each bristlecarriers can engage the receiving member of the toothbrush in a separatechannel, or more than one bristle carriers can engage the receivingmember within the same channel. FIG. 24 a illustrates the movable andstatic bristle carriers slidingly engaged with the receiving member ofthis embodiment of the toothbrush 1401. The movable and static bristlecarriers may engage the receiving member in the same channel. In anotherembodiment the movable and static bristle carriers snap onto thereceiving member. The movable bristle carriers can be retained on thereceiving member by an operative engagement with the drive shaft.Preferably both the static bristle carriers and the movable bristlecarriers can engage the receiving member in a longitudinal direction.However, the carriers can also engage the receiving member in adirection perpendicular to the surface of the receiving member.

A wide array of channel configurations can be used to slidingly engagethe nested bristle carriers 1423 with the receiving member 1431 of thetoothbrush 1401. These channels should be sized as necessary to directand/or guide a rail, or other guiding member, located on the bristlecarriers. The channels can be various shapes and sizes other than whatis shown. Additionally, the channels can be three sided, two sided, oreven one sided, so long as the channel is sized to receive or guide therail, or other guiding member located on the bristle carriers. Thereceiving member can comprise as many channels as bristle carriers to beengaged. The channels may be configured such that the movable bristlecarriers engages an inner set of channels, defined by the surfaceslocated towards the center of the receiving member, and an outer set ofchannels, defined by the surfaces located towards the outward edges ofthe receiving member. Each bristle carriers can have an individualchannel, or the bristle carriers can engage the receiving member in thesame channel. In the alternative the surface of the receiving member canbe formed into a rail to guide the bristle carriers into place. Inaddition to the channel and rail assembly used to guide the bristlecarriers onto the receiving member, other assemblies may be used toretain the bristle carriers on the receiving member. In one embodimentthe bristle carriers are retained on the receiving member of thetoothbrush by connectors defined by the outer surface of the receivingmember, matable with connectors defined by the inner surface of thestatic bristle carriers. Such connectors include, but are not limitedto, serrations and teeth, indentations and tabs, and grooves andprotuberances. In one embodiment of the toothbrush the connectors areone or more retaining grooves defined along the inner surfaces of thestatic bristle carriers, and protuberances 1417 defined along the outersurface of the receiving member wherein the protuberances 1417 reside inthe grooves to secure the static bristle carriers on the receivingmember. In another embodiment, (not shown), the protuberances aredefined along the inner surface of the static bristle carriers, and thegrooves are defined along the outer surface of the receiving member,wherein the protuberances reside in the grooves to secure the staticbristle carriers. The bristle carriers can also engage the receivingmember with a snap type engagement (not shown). In another embodimentthe one or more static carrier(s) and/or the one or more movablecarrier(s) engage the receiving member with a flexible tongue having alatch hook and a corresponding locking undercut or recess in theopposite attachment part as disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No.10/361,653.

When the one or more movable bristle carrier(s) are nested within thestatic bristle carrier(s), the rail of the movable bristle carrier(s)can extend below the static bristle carrier(s), so that the rail of themovable bristle carrier(s) can engage the receiving member of thetoothbrush. When the nested bristle carrier(s) engage the receivingmember, the movable bristle carrier(s) can be disposed in the middleand/or center of the head of the toothbrush.

In another embodiment of the invention the nested arrangement occursonly once all the bristle carriers engage the receiving member (notshown). In this embodiment a portion of the receiving member comprisesstatic bristles permanently affixed directly onto the surface of thereceiving member. The movable bristle carrier(s) can be substantiallysurrounded by static bristles when a receiving member provided withbristles, receives one or more movable bristle carrier(s) and then oneor more static bristle carrier(s).

The movable bristle carrier(s) is also operatively engaged to the motor.This operative engagement can be achieved by connecting the bristlecarrier(s) to a drive shaft that extends through a passage 1428 definedwithin a portion of the neck 1440 and receiving member 1431. The driveshaft may be rotatably or slidingly disposed within the passage 1428.Once the brush head is formed by the engagement of the bristle carriersto the receiving member, the passage 1428 provides access between thebrush head 1421, the neck 1440, and the interior of the body 1480. Thedistal end of the drive shaft is preferably secured to the movablebristle carrier(s) by the pin 1409, located on the movable bristlecarrier(s) 1405, engaging the aperture, located on the tip of the driveshaft (not shown). The tip of the shaft may be flexible, and deflects tofacilitate receiving the pin on the movable bristle carrier(s) into theaperture on the tip of the drive shaft. The present invention includesengagement assemblies using pins, protuberances or other fasteners thataffix the drive shaft to the movable bristle carrier(s). A snap-fitconnection may be utilized between the movable bristle carrier(s) andthe distal end of the drive shaft. Examples of snap fit connectionsinclude, but are not limited to, serrations on teeth, and a press fitengagement. The present invention also includes all types of motors andgearing arrangements suitable for operating an electric toothbrush,including but not limited to the inventive high efficiency motordiscussed herein. These motors can move the drive shaft. The operativeconnection between the drive shaft and the movable carrier(s)facilitates movement of the movable carriers. The drive shaft, andtherefore the movable carrier(s), can undergo any of the aforementionedmotions. However, in one embodiment the drive shaft and the movablecarrier(s) reciprocates.

It will be understood that the present invention includes assembliesfeaturing a releasably removable static carrier(s) such as a brush headtip, similar to tip 1430 shown in the noted figures, and/or a releasablyremovable movable carrier(s). A removable static carrier(s), and/ormovable carrier(s) enables a user to selectively tailor and customize abrush as desired. For example, various combinations of static and/ormovable carriers include, but are not limited to, bristle carriers,brush head tip carriers, elastomeric element carriers, oral carecomposition carriers, and dental tool carriers, or any combinationthereof. For instance, carriers containing elements that arespecifically designed for applying whitening agents to the teeth may beused. It is also contemplated that elastomeric elements or “cushioning”elements may be provided and/or used with the present inventiontoothbrushes. Such elastomeric elements are formed entirely or partiallyfrom thermoplastic elastomers. Elastomeric elements are particularlypreferred for incorporation in toothbrushes that utilize one or moreother regions or components that are formed from elastomers. Forexample, the present invention includes toothbrushes as described hereinwith elastomeric elements and which employ one or more elastomers ingripping regions along the handle, or as “bumpers” or cushioning regionsalong the brush head. Such elastomers may be co-injected when formingthe brush, or may be coated thereon.

The releasable aspect of the carrier(s) may be provided by incorporatinga release member along the underside of the brush head that, whenpressed or otherwise engaged, allows the carrier to be removed andanother carrier positioned in its place. It is further envisioned thatthe releasable aspect could be achieved by use of a tool or othercomponent to selectively release the carrier from the receiving member.Such a tool could be sold or otherwise commercialized with thetoothbrush. Alternatively or in addition, such a tool could be sold orotherwise commercialized with one or more carriers that are sold as akit for use with the present invention toothbrushes. More specifically,such kits might include one or more of the following and thusincorporate a combination of any of the following components: (i)bristle carriers, brush head tips, elastomeric element carriers, oralcare composition carriers, and dental tool carriers, (ii) one or moretoothbrushes, (iii) a package or other housing for storing all thecomponents, (iv) one or more tools that might be useful when replacingor substituting or otherwise changing carrier(s), and (v) one or moredentifrice or other compositions for use with the carrier(s) andtoothbrush. It is further envisioned that such kits may includebatteries for use with the toothbrush, bases or other “stands” forretaining the toothbrush when not in use, replaceable handle componentsthat are used to change the appearance of the toothbrush, and decorativestickers or other types of labels that may be placed on the toothbrush,its stand, and/or the kit housing.

FIGS. 25 a through 27 a further illustrate embodiments of the staticbristle carriers FIG. 25 a, the movable bristle carriers FIG. 26 a, andthe receiving member FIG. 27 a. FIG. 25 a illustrates an end view of therails 1419 defined by the surfaces of the static carriers 1403. Thisembodiment of the invention also has apertures 1435 to receive bristles.Additionally, this embodiment has a cavity 1441 where the receivingmember 1431 engages the static carriers. FIG. 26 a illustrates an endview of the movable carriers 1405, as well as the rails 1407 defined bythe surfaces of the movable carriers. FIG. 27 a illustrates an end viewof the inventive toothbrush, and in particular the receiving member1431. The static carriers 1403 engages the receiving member via thechannels 1413. The movable carriers 1405 engages the receiving membervia the channels 1411. The static carriers can be retained on thereceiving member by the protuberance 1417, received into a groove on theinner surface of the static carriers 1403.

A wide array of bristle configurations may be utilized in conjunctionwith the toothbrushes of the present invention, and particularly thoseembodiments that utilize a removable or separately formed brush headtip. For instance, static bristles having a height or length that isequal to that of the movable bristles may be utilized. Any of thepreviously noted configurations of the static bristles and movablebristles shown in the referenced figures, described herein, or noted inTable 1 may be utilized. Specifically, FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate thehead of the toothbrush 1433 and the neck 1440 of one embodiment of thebrush 1400 with a collection of static bristles 1460 disposed on a tip1430 at the distal end of the toothbrush head 1433 and a collection ofmovable bristles 1450 disposed on a movable bristle carriers 1452 (thecarriers 1452 shown in dashed lines). Preferably, the height of themovable bristles 1450 along the toothbrush head 1433, designated in FIG.25 as dimension C, ranges from about 3 mm to about 14 mm, and preferablyfrom about 7 mm to about 11 mm. Generally, bristle height is thedistance of a bristle as measured from an outwardly directed surface,i.e. typically the surface of its base or mounting component, to the endor tip of the bristle. The noted outwardly directed surface of a bristlemounting component is generally referred to herein as a brush-facingsurface. Although not shown in FIG. 25, it will be appreciated that aplurality of static bristles, supported and retained directly on thehead of the toothbrush 1433, are preferably disposed around the movablebristles 1450. It will be appreciated that such static bristles are notshown in these figures (nor in FIGS. 27-30) for purposes of clarity. Thepreferred height of the static bristles (those disposed around themovable bristles 1450 and those disposed on the tip 1430) also rangesfrom about 3 mm to about 14 mm, and preferably from about 7 mm to about11 mm.

It is also contemplated to provide static bristles having a varyinglength, and particularly, arranged in a manner so as to provide aninclined brushing surface. This is shown in FIGS. 27 to 33. The term“brushing surface” as used herein refers to the distal ends of bristlesor elastomeric elements that contact a user's teeth or gums duringbrushing.

Specifically, FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate a toothbrush head 1520 and aneck 1540 of another embodiment of the toothbrush 1500 according to thepresent invention. The brush head 1520 includes a movable bristlecarriers 1552 having a plurality of movable bristles 1550 (the carriers1552 shown in dashed lines) supported or retained therein. The brushhead 1520 also includes a tip 1530 having a collection of static orstationary bristles 1560 supported or retained thereon. It will beappreciated that a plurality of stationary bristles 1560 preferablysurround, or at least partially so, the movable bristles 1550. Forclarity, that portion of bristles supported directly on the brush head1520 is not shown in FIG. 27. The tip 1530 preferably includesstationary bristles 1560 having different lengths and arranged so as toprovide an inclined brushing surface. When providing an inclinedbrushing surface, such as specifically shown in FIG. 27, the angle A,which is the angle of the inclined surface with respect to thelongitudinal axis of the neck 1540 and head 1520, may range from about 5degrees to about 85 degrees, and preferably from about 20 degrees toabout 70 degrees. Most preferably, the longer bristles are disposedadjacent the distal end of the head 1520. The height of the movablebristles 1550, designated in FIG. 27 as dimension D, ranges from about 3mm to about 14 mm, and preferably from about 7 mm to about 11 mm. Theheight of the static bristles 1560 ranges from about 3 mm to about 18mm, and preferably from about 7 mm to about 11 mm. The maximum height ofthe static bristles 1560 and particularly those disposed at the distalend of the head 1520 is about 18 mm. That dimension is shown asdimension E in FIG. 27.

FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate yet another preferred configuration forbristle configurations. These figures illustrate an embodiment of thetoothbrush 1600 having a neck 1640, a toothbrush head 1620, a movablebristle carriers 1652 (shown in dashed lines) having movable bristles1650, a toothbrush head tip 1630, and a collection of static bristles1660 located on the end tip 1630 disposed at the end of the toothbrushhead 1620. In this embodiment, the collection of static bristles 1660 onthe tip 1630 are arranged so as to provide an inclined brushing surface.The height of the movable bristles 1650, designated in FIG. 29 asdimension F, ranges from about 3 mm to about 14 mm, and preferably fromabout 7 mm to about 11 mm. The height of the static bristles 1660,ranges from about 3 mm to about 18 mm, and preferably from about 7 mm toabout 11 mm. The maximum height of the static bristles 1660 andparticularly those disposed at the distal end of the head 1620 is about18 mm. That dimension is shown as dimension G in FIG. 29. The embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30 differs from that depicted in FIGS. 27and 28 primarily in that the static bristles 1660 disposed on the brushhead tip 1630 do not linearly vary in height from one end of the tip 230to the other, as do the bristles 150 in FIG. 27. Restated, the resultingsurface defined by the distal ends of the bristles 150 in FIG. 27 isgenerally straight, whereas the resulting surface defined by the distalends of the bristles 1660 in FIG. 29 is generally arcuate.

It is also contemplated to utilize various bristle configurations at thetoothbrush head tip which provide varying inclinations and changingbristle height across the width of the brush head as shown in FIGS. 31to 33. Specifically, FIG. 31 illustrates an embodiment of the toothbrush1700 having a brush head 1720 and a plurality of static bristles 1760.The bristles 1760 provide an inclined brushing surface that forms anangled valley, when viewed along a line in the same direction as thelongitudinal axis of the brush head 1720 and neck (not shown in FIG.31). Preferably, each side of the valley formed by the distal ends ofthe bristles 1760 is symmetrical and extends so as to form an angle Bwith respect to a vertical line perpendicular to a longitudinal axis ofthe brush head 1720 and neck (not shown). Angle B may range from about10.degree. to about 80.degree., and preferably from about 30.degree. toabout 60.degree.

FIG. 32 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush 1800 having abrush head 1820 with a plurality of static bristles 1860 extendingtherefrom. The contoured or arcuate brushing surface provided by thedistal ends of the bristles 1860 may be in the form of a concave regionor surface as shown in FIG. 32.

FIG. 33 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush 1900 having abrush head 1920 and a plurality of static bristles 1960 extendingtherefrom. The bristles 1960 may provide an irregular brushing surfaceas shown.

FIG. 34 illustrates a portion of another embodiment of the toothbrush2000. This toothbrush comprises a brush head 2020, a neck orintermediate portion 2040, a movable bristle carriers 2052 (shown indashed lines), a brush head tip 2030 (shown in dashed lines), and aplurality of bristles 2050 and a plurality of elastomeric elements 2060.The bristles 2050 may include movable bristles, static bristles, orboth, as described herein. The elastomeric elements 2060 massage thegums while the user simultaneously brushes his or her teeth. Theelastomeric elements can be made from a rubber, soft plastic or similarmaterial. The elastomeric elements are preferably formed from anelastomeric material. The elastomeric elements extend essentiallyperpendicularly from the toothbrush head 2020 as measured along thelongitudinal axis of the toothbrush 600. In one of the embodiments ofthe toothbrush 2000, the elastomeric elements 2060 are located proximatethe distal end of the toothbrush head 2020, and most preferably alongthe brush head tip 2030 as described herein. However, it is to beunderstood that the elastomeric elements can be located anywhere amongthe moving and static bristles. The height of the elastomeric elements2060 is approximately the same height as the bristles 2050. Theelastomeric elements 2060 may extend slightly above, slightly below orto the same height as the bristles 2050.

FIG. 35 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush 2100 comprisinga toothbrush head 2120, a movable bristle carriers 2152 (shown in dashedlines), and a neck or intermediate portion 2140. The toothbrush 700includes a plurality of bristles 2150 and a second set of bristles 2160disposed on a brush head tip 2130 (shown partially in dashed lines). Inthis embodiment, the bristles 2150 are arranged in groups of tuftswherein each tuft contains bristles of various lengths or heights. Thebristles of varying height are arranged within each tuft such that thedistal ends of the bristles form an inclined surface with respect to thegenerally flat surface or brush-facing surface of the brush head 2120.Preferably, this inclined surface forms an angle H with respect to theflat face of the brush head 2120. Angle H is in the range of from about10.degree. to about 90.degree. and preferably from about 20.degree. toabout 45.degree.

The second set of bristles 2160 disposed on the brush head tip 2130 arepreferably also arranged in groups or tufts. The preferred height ofbristles 2160 is approximately equal to the maximum bristle height ofthe bristles 2150. FIG. 35 illustrates a particularly preferred featureof the present invention toothbrushes, and relating to the configurationof the brush head tip 2130. The brush head tip 2130 is provided with aregion 2132 having a relatively large thickness such that its flat,brush-facing surface generally extends above the brush-facing surface ofthe carriers 2152. This difference in height between the brush-facingsurfaces of the regions of bristles 2150 and bristles 2160 isillustrated in FIG. 35 as dimension P. Preferably, P is from about 1 toabout 5 mm.

FIG. 36 is another illustration of an embodiment of the toothbrush 2200having a head 2220, a movable bristle carriers 2252 (shown in dashedlines), and a neck 2240. Disposed on the brush head 2220 are a pluralityof upwardly extending bristles 2250. The toothbrush 2200 also includes abrush head tip 2230 (shown partially in dashed lines) disposed at thedistal end of the brush and having a region 2232 that extends above theflat, brush-facing surface of the brush head 2220 and the carriers 2252.The plurality of bristles 2250 are preferably configured such that theiroutermost ends, when viewed in planar fashion as shown in FIG. 36,define an arcuate brushing surface, preferably having a common radius asshown in FIG. 36, designated as I. The brush head tip 2230 includes theraised region 2232 that is preferably formed to define a sloping surfacewith respect to the flat, brush-facing surface of the brush head 2220and the carriers 2252. This angle of slope is shown in FIG. 36 as angleN. Angle N may range from about 10.degree. to about 80.degree., with15.degree. to 45.degree. being preferred. The height of the bristles2260 may be greater or lesser than any of the heights of the bristles2250. The bristle configuration depicted in FIG. 36 is exemplary.

FIG. 37 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush 2300 accordingto the present invention. Toothbrush 2300 comprises a brush head 2320, amovable bristle carriers 2352 (shown in dashed lines), and a neck 2340.The toothbrush 2300 includes a plurality of bristles 2350 and anotherset of bristles 2360 disposed on a brush head tip 2330 (partially shownin dashed lines). The brush head tip includes a raised region 2332extending above the brush-facing surface of the brush head 2320 andcarriers 2352. The outermost surface of the raised region 2332 of thebrush head tip 2330 is preferably sloped at an angle K as shown in FIG.37. Angle K may range from about 10.degree. to about 80.degree., with15.degree. to 45.degree. being preferred. The bristles 2350 are alsoparticularly configured such that their outermost or distal ends definea concave brushing surface, preferably having a common radius J as shownin FIG. 37. The height of the bristles 2360 may be greater or lesserthan any of the heights of the bristles 950. However, it may in someapplications be preferred to arrange the bristles 2360 such that theirdistal ends generally extend within a plane that is parallel with thesloping surface of the raised region 2332 of the brush head tip 2330.This angle M preferably corresponds to angle K, and so may range fromabout 10.degree. to about 80.degree. with 15.degree. to 45.degree. beingpreferred.

FIG. 38 is another embodiment of the toothbrush 2400 having a brush head2420, a movable bristle carriers 2452 (shown in dashed lines), a brushhead tip 2430 (also shown in dashed lines), and a neck 2440. Thetoothbrush 2400 includes a plurality of bristles 2450, a second set ofbristles 2460 disposed on the brush head tip 2430, and a plurality ofelastomeric elements 2454. The arrangement, height, and configuration ofthe bristles 2450, 2460, and elastomeric elements 2454 may be asdescribed herein with regard to any of the other embodiments.

FIG. 39 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush 2500 having abrush head 2520, a movable bristle carriers 2552 (shown in dashedlines), and a neck 2540. The toothbrush 2500 includes a plurality ofbristles 2550 and a plurality of elastomeric elements 2554 preferablydisposed at opposing angles from each other. That is, the elastomericelements 2554 preferably extend at an angle θ as shown in FIG. 39. Thecollection of bristles 2550 preferably extend in the opposite directionbut at a similar angle. The toothbrush 2500 also includes a plurality ofbristles 2560 extending from a brush head tip 2530 (shown partially indashed lines). The brush head tip may also include a region 2532extending above the flat, brush-facing surface of the brush head 2520.This raised region 2532 may further provide an arcuate outer surfacethat may be defined by a common radius such as radius Q shown in FIG.39. The arrangement, height, and configuration of the bristles 2550,2560 and elastomeric elements 2554 may be as described herein withregard to any of the other embodiments.

FIG. 40 illustrates yet another embodiment of the toothbrush 2600 havinga brush head 2620, a movable bristle carriers 2652 (shown in dashedlines), and a neck 2640. The toothbrush 2600 includes a brush head tip2630 (also shown in dashed lines) having a plurality of bristles 2660extending therefrom. Another set of bristles 2650 are provided on thebrush head 2620, and specifically on the movable bristle carriers 2652.In this embodiment, the height of the bristles 2660 is significantlygreater than the height of the bristles 2650. As previously describedherein, the bristles 2650, 2660 may be arranged in groups or tuftswherein the bristles within a particular tuft may have differentlengths.

FIG. 41 illustrates yet another embodiment of the toothbrush 2700 havinga brush head 2720, a neck 2740, a movable bristle carriers 2752 (shownpartially in dashed lines), a plurality of bristles 2750 extending fromthe bristle carriers 2752, and another set of bristles 2760 extendingfrom a brush head tip 2730 (shown in dashed lines). In this embodiment,the bristle carriers 2752 has a relatively large thickness such that itsflat, brush-facing surface is generally elevated above or disposedcloser to the user during brushing, than the brush-facing surface of thebrush head tip 2730 and other portions of the brush head 2720. Theelevated portion of the bristle carrier 2752 that extends past theadjacent regions of the brush head 2720 and the brush head tip 2730 isdesignated in FIG. 41 as 2745. For bristle configurations in which thedistal ends or brushing surfaces of the bristles 2750 and 2760 generallyextend along a common plane, the resulting shorter length of bristles2750 imparts an increased stiffness to those bristles. The extent ofelevation of the region 2745 of increased thickness is shown in FIG. 41as dimension R. R may range from about 1 mm to about 5 mm.

FIG. 42 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush 2800 having abrush head 2820 and a neck 2840. A plurality of bristles 2850 areprovided on the brush head and extend from a bristle carrier 2852(partially shown in dashed lines) which is preferably movable withrespect to the head 2820. The toothbrush 2800 also comprises anotherplurality of bristles 2860 that extend from a brush head tip 2830(partially shown in dashed lines). In this embodiment, the brush-facingsurface of the bristle carriers 2852 is preferably sloping, morepreferably arcuate, and most preferably convex as shown in FIG. 42. Inthe event this surface is convex, it is further defined by a radius S asshown in FIG. 42. The upwardly directed brush-facing surface of thebristle carrier 2852 is also preferably elevated above the relativelyflat, brush-facing surface of the brush head 2820, preferably bydimension T shown in FIG. 42. Dimension T may range from about 1 mm toabout 5 mm. The elevated portion of the bristle carrier 2852 thatextends past the adjacent regions of the brush head 2820 is designatedas 2845. The brush-facing surface of the brush head tip 2830 ispreferably arcuate and more preferably concave. The elevated portion ofthe bristle carrier 2830 that extends past the adjacent regions of thebrush head 2820 is designated as 2832. The arrangement, height, andconfiguration of the bristles 2850 and 2860 may be as described hereinwith regard to any of the other embodiments.

FIG. 43 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush 2900 having abrush head 2920, a movable bristle carrier 2952 (shown partially bydashed lines), a brush head tip 2930 (shown by dashed lines), and a neck2940. A collection of bristles 2950 extend from the bristle carrier2952. And, another collection of bristles 2960 extend from the brushhead tip 2930. The bristles 2950 are preferably disposed and retained onthe movable bristle carrier 2952. The bristle carrier 2952 provides anupwardly directed, brush-facing surface which is depicted in FIG. 43 asconcave. Preferably, this concave surface is defined by a common radiusU. The elevated portion of the bristle carrier 2952 that extends pastthe adjacent regions of the brush head 2920 is shown as region 2945. Thearrangement, height, and configuration of the bristles 2950 and 2960 maybe as described herein with regard to any of the other embodiments.

FIG. 44 illustrates yet another embodiment of the toothbrush 3000according to the present invention. The toothbrush 3000 comprises abrush head 3020 and a neck 3040. The toothbrush 3000 includes aplurality of bristles 3050 extending from a bristle carrier 3052 (shownpartially in dashed lines) that is movably disposed on the brush head3020. And, the toothbrush 3000 includes another set of bristles 3060extending from a brush head tip 3030 (shown partially in dashed lines).The outermost surface of the bristle carrier 3052 may be provided suchthat it has one or more sloping surfaces defined along a raised region3045 as shown in FIG. 44. These slopes may be carried through such thatthe distal-most ends of the bristles 3050 mirror this same slope or,another or different slope. Similarly, the outermost end of the bristles3060 may also reflect the sloping surface of a raised region 3032 of thebrush head end 3030. Preferably, the bristle carrier 3052 provides atleast a region having a sloping brush-facing surface. That slopepreferably extends along an angle V as shown in FIG. 44. Angle Vpreferably is from about 10.degree. to about 60.degree., and morepreferably from about 20.degree. to about 30.degree. Similarly, thebrush head tip 3030 preferably provides a sloping brush-facing surfacethat extends along an angle W. Angle W preferably ranges from about10.degree. to about 45.degree.

FIG. 45 is another embodiment of the toothbrush 3100 having a brush head3120 and a neck 3140. The toothbrush 3100 includes a plurality ofelastomeric elements 3162 extending from a brush head tip 3130 (shownpartially in dashed lines). The toothbrush 3100 also comprises aplurality of bristles 3150 extending from a movable bristle carriers3152. The bristle carriers 3152 contains a region 3145 that is raisedrelative to the adjacent regions of the brush head 3120. Similarly, thebrush head tip 3130 contains a region 3132 that is raised relative tothe adjacent regions of the brush head 3120. Either or both of theoutwardly directed, brush-facing surfaces of the bristle carriers 3152and the brush head tip 3130, may be flat, sloping, arcuate, convex orconcave. Furthermore, the arrangement, height, and configuration of thebristles 3150 and elastomeric elements 3162 may be as described hereinwith regard to any of the other embodiments.

Another preferred bristle configuration is similar to the configurationsshown in FIGS. 36 and 45, i.e. having an interior group of bristles thatextend “above” or have a greater height than adjacent bristles, howeverfeatures a stepped or plateau configuration. In this configuration, thechange in bristle height is not gradual or varying as shown in FIGS. 36and 45, but instead is stepped. That is, the change in height fromshorter bristles disposed around the taller medially disposed bristlesis rather abrupt. The difference in height between these two groups ofbristles is about 0.5 mm to about 3 mm, and more preferably from about0.75 mm to about 1.5 mm.

Referring to the various bristle carriers illustrated and describedherein, it can be seen that the profile or configuration of theoutwardly facing surface of the carrier, generally referred to herein asa brush-facing surface, may be in a variety of forms and shapes. Oneparticularly preferred shape is a concave shape (when viewing thebristle carrier from its side, and its side that generally extends alongthe same direction as the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush). Aconcave shape promotes the retention of dentifrice or polishing materialthat may be used during brushing. Likewise, a convex surface promotesthe dissipation of dentifrice in the region of the bristles along thebrush head. Most preferably, bristle carriers in accordance with thepresent invention utilize a non-flat brush-facing surface.

Another aspect of interest in the design of a brush head is theselection, placement, and configuration of bristles along the bristlecarrier, brush head tip, and brush head. Generally, the stiffness of abristle or tuft of bristles increases as the length of the bristle(s)decreases. Thus, changes in bristle stiffness may be achieved byaltering the length of the subject bristles. This characteristic isimportant to consider when providing a bristle carrier having abrush-facing surface that is non-planar. It will be appreciated thatbristle stiffness will vary at different locations along the bristlecarrier since the length or height of the bristles extending therefromvaries. Alternatively, the stiffness of bristles having equal heightswill be generally the same. The present invention includes a wide arrayof different combinations of bristle carrier shapes and configurations;and bristle length, materials, and configuration. Many of thesepreferred configurations have been exemplified in the referencedfigures. Additionally, in some embodiments, it is preferred to utilizediameters of bristles and/or diameters of tufts of bristles on themovable bristle carrier that are larger than corresponding diameters ofbristles or tufts of bristles that are disposed on the brush head tip.In yet other embodiments, it may be desirable to utilize diameters ofbristles/tufts on the carrier that are smaller than correspondingbristles/tufts on the tip.

FIGS. 46 and 47 illustrate in greater detail a preferred brush head 3220of an embodiment of the toothbrush 3200 according to the presentinvention. The toothbrush 3200 comprises a brush head 3220 and a neck3240 integrally formed with and extending therefrom. The toothbrush 3200further comprises a movable bristle carrier 3245 defining a plurality ofholes or apertures 3254 adapted for receiving and retaining bristles orbristle tufts (not shown). The bristle carrier 3245 provides anoutwardly directed brush-facing surface 3252. Defined along anoppositely directed face is an under-surface 3253. A receiving aperture3254 is also defined along the under-surface 3253 and is sized andadapted to receive and engage a distal end 3206 of a movable drive shaft3205. As will be appreciated, the drive shaft 3205 reciprocates withinthe neck 3240 and imparts a similar reciprocating type motion to thebristle carrier 3245. The toothbrush 3200 also comprises a brush headtip 3230 defining an outwardly directed brush-face surface 3232 and oneor more apertures 3234 adapted to receive and retain bristles or bristletufts (not shown). The brush head 3220 may also define one or moreapertures located along the brushing face of the head 3220, such asapertures 3224 defined in the region 3222 of the head 3220.

Although the assembly shown in FIG. 47 for engaging the bristle carrier3245 with the shaft 3205 is generally preferred, i.e. use of a notcheddistal end 3206 that is received in aperture 3254, other assemblies forengaging a movable bristle carrier with a drive shaft may be utilized.For example, the present invention includes engagement assemblies usingpins or other fasteners that affix the drive shaft to the carrier.Alternatively, other assemblies may be used such as snap-fitconnections, releasable engagement assemblies, and nonreleasableassemblies. The materials employed for the components of the engagementassemblies can be polymeric, metal, or any other material havingsuitable strength and durability properties.

FIG. 48 is a partial exploded view of an embodiment of the toothbrush3300 according to the present invention. This embodiment of theinventive toothbrush 3300 comprises a body or housing 3312 and an endcap 3320. The body 3312 is essentially a one-piece body having a majorportion including a neck 3316 and an end 3318, and a brush head 3314extending from the neck 3316. Preferably, the brush head 3314, neck3316, and body 3312 are generally continuous and integrally formed withone another. The body 3312 and portions of the neck 3316 and head 3314,define a hollow interior region, which house a drive mechanism. Themajor portion of the body 3312 also defines a recessed region or one ormore apertures along its outer surface which receives an electricalswitch (not shown) for operating the drive mechanism of the electrictoothbrush described in greater detail herein. A protective cover 3313preferably fits within this recessed region. The end cap 3320 includes aclosed end 3322 and an opposite open end 3324. The open end 3324 issized to engage and generally seal the end 3318 of the housing 3312. AnO-ring or other sealing member 3319 may be used at the interface of theends 3318 and 3324 of the housing components.

One of the embodiments of the toothbrush further comprises a drive motor3350 having a drive shaft 3352. The motor 3350 is a DC motor similar tomotors known to those skilled in the art and includes various switchingcircuits and a battery or other power source (not shown). Thesecomponents are housed and retained within the hollow interior regiondefined in the body 3312 and optionally within the end cap 3320. A drivegear 3354 is engaged to the drive shaft 3352. A lower motor mount 3330is provided. An upper motor mount 3340 is also provided which, togetherwith the lower motor mount 3330, generally cradle, retain, and securethe motor 3350 within the interior of the housing 3312 and cap 3320. Thelower motor mount 3330 includes inner and outer drive shaft supports3332 and 3334, respectively. The lower motor mount 3330 also includes abase or aperture 3336 for receiving a mount or axle 3358 for a drivegear described in greater detail herein. The upper motor mount 3340includes an inner drive shaft support 3342 and a drive shaft housing3344 which preferably engages the inner mount 3342 and optionally theouter mount 3334 of the lower motor mount 3330. The upper motor mount3340 additionally includes a plurality of engagement legs 3346 thatpreferably engage the lower motor mount 3330 for retaining motor 3350disposed between the two assemblies. It will be appreciated that insteadof utilizing an upper and lower motor mount, a single one-piece mount orretaining structure could be employed.

The drive gear 3354 is engaged with a crown gear 3356. Crown gear 3356is rotatably supported at its center 3357 by the axle or pivot member3358. The crown gear 3356 includes an offset engagement member 3355 towhich is attached a pinion end 3362 of a drive shaft 3360. The driveshaft 3360 includes the noted pinion end 3362 that includes a receivingaperture or other engagement member for engagement with the offsetmember 3355. The drive shaft 3360 further includes a distal end 3364which is used to engage and thus drive a movable bristle carrierdescribed in greater detail herein. The drive shaft 3360 extends withinthe interior hollow cavity of the housing 3312 and preferably through atleast a portion of the neck 3316. The distal end 3364 of the drive shaft3360 is engaged with a bristle carrier 3370, described below. The end3364 is accessible through an aperture in the brush head 3314.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 3300 further includes a movablebristle carrier 3370 which, upon assembly in the toothbrush 3300,reciprocates along the brush head 3314. Preferably, the movable bristlecarrier 3370 reciprocates within a channel 3311 defined along the brushhead 3314, and most preferably in a direction parallel with thelongitudinal axis of the toothbrush 3300. Disposed along the undersideof the bristle carrier 3370 is a ridged member 3372. This ridged member3372 is configured to move within, yet be retained by, the channel 3311.The bristle carrier 3370 defines a plurality of apertures 3374 withinwhich are disposed a plurality of bristles or bristle tufts (not shown).The bristle carrier 3370 includes a first end 3375 which, upon assemblywith the brush head 3314, is preferably disposed adjacent a region oredge 3315 defined between the neck 3316 and the brush head 3314 of thebody or housing 3312. The opposite end of the movable bristle carrier3370 is end 3376 and is preferably curvilinear as shown in FIG. 48.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 3300 further comprises a stationarybristle carrier tip 3380 which defines a plurality of apertures 3384 forretaining bristles or bristle tufts (not shown), a first end 3385 whichengages or is disposed adjacent to the end 3376 of the movable bristlecarrier 3370, and a ridged member 3382 disposed along the underside ofthe tip 3380. By “stationary” it is meant that the carrier tip 3380,once assembled and engaged with the brush head 3314, is generallysecured to the brush head 3314 and does not move with the bristlecarrier 3370. Preferably, the ridged member 3382 is sized in a similarfashion and configuration as the ridged member 3372 of the bristlecarrier 3370. Both of the ridged members 3372 and 3382 are preferablyretained within channel 3311 defined in the brush head 3314.

One or more threaded fasteners 3390 and 3392 may be utilized to affixthe body 3312 to the end cap 3320. It will be understood that othertechniques or components may be utilized to assemble the housingtogether.

Upon operation of this embodiment of the toothbrush 3300, an electricalcircuit is completed between a power source such as a battery and themotor 3350. Details as to the power source and electrical operatingcharacteristics of the motor are provided herein. Rotation of the drivegear 3354 causes rotation of the crown gear 3356. Preferably, the axisof rotation of the crown gear 3356 is perpendicular or transverse to theaxis of rotation of the drive gear 3354. Rotation of crown gear 3356imparts a reciprocating motion to the drive shaft 3360 extending withinthe hollow interior region defined within the body 3312, neck 3316, andoptionally the head 3314. The distal end 3364 of the drive shaft isengaged with the movable bristle carrier 3370, and so, imparts acorresponding reciprocating motion to the carrier 3370.

FIG. 49 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 inaccordance with the present invention. The toothbrush 3400 includes abody portion 3412, a neck portion 3416, and an end cap 3420. The bodyportion 3412 defines a first end 3418 and an opposite end 3404 whichpreferably includes a screw member or threaded region. The end cap 3420defines a closed end 3422 and an opposite open end 3424. The open end3424 is sized and configured to releasably engage the end 3418 of thebody portion 3412. An O-ring or other sealing member 3419 is preferablyused at the interface between the ends 3424 and 3418. The neck 3416includes an end 3417 and a brush head 3414 preferably integrally formedat the end of the neck 3416 opposite the end 3417. The end 3417preferably includes provisions for releasably engaging a screw memberdefined at the end 3404 of the body member 3412. The brush head 3414preferably includes a first channel member 3411 and an aperture 3403which provides access to a hollow region extending within the brush head3414 and neck region 3416. An optional second channel 3402 may bedefined along the brush head 3414 which further provides guidance for amovable bristle carrier described in greater detail herein. A guide wall3415 is preferably defined along the brush head 3414 and may extendaround a portion of the periphery of the surface of the brush head.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 further includes a motor 3450providing a powered drive shaft 3452. An electrical switching circuitand a power source, although not shown, are preferably retained withinthe hollow region defined within the body 3412 and end cap 3420. A lowermotor mount 3430 and an upper motor mount 3440 preferably cradle andretain the motor 3450 within the interior hollow region defined withinthe body 3412 and end cap 3420. The interior hollow region extendswithin the neck 3416 and optionally within a portion of the brush head3414. The lower motor mount 3430 includes a base or aperture 3436 forreceiving a pivot or axle member 3458 for a drive gear described ingreater detail herein. The lower motor mount 3430 includes an innerdrive support 3432 and an outer drive support 3434 as shown. The uppermotor mount 3440 includes a drive support 3442 which preferably engageswith the inner and/or outer drive supports 3432 and 3434 of the lowermotor mount 3430. A drive housing 3444 is also provided which preferablyengages the motor mount 3440. A plurality of engagement legs 3446 arepreferably formed from the upper motor mount 3440 which engage the lowermount 3430. As previously noted with regard to FIG. 48, it will beappreciated that a one-piece motor mount component may be utilized.

A drive gear 3454 which is secured to the drive shaft 3452 of the motor3450 is preferably in engagement with a crown gear 3456. The crown gearis rotatably supported by the axle or pivot member 3458 which in turn isreceived in the base 3436 of lower motor mount 3430. The crown gear 3456includes a centrally located guide member 3457 and an offset member3455. The offset member 3455 is engaged with a pinion end 3462 of adrive shaft component 3461. The drive shaft component 3461 includes anend 3463 defined oppositely from the pinion member 3462. Also providedis another drive shaft member 3466 which includes an end 3465 and anopposite end 3464. The end 3465 preferably engages the end 3463 of thedrive shaft component 3461. The opposite end 3464 of the drive shaftcomponent 3466 preferably engages a movable bristle carrier described ingreater detail herein. The drive shaft components 3466 and 3461preferably reside within the interior hollow region of the body 3412 andneck 3416. A releasable and protective cover 3413 preferably is attachedalong a recessed region or one or more apertures defined within the body3412. The cover 3413 serves as a protective housing or cover for aswitch, the position of which may be changed through the cover 3413.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 also comprises a movable bristlecarrier 3470 and a stationary bristle carrier tip or end 3480. Themovable bristle carrier 3470 defines a plurality of apertures 3474 forreceiving and retaining a plurality of bristles and bristle tufts (notshown). The bristle carrier 3470 includes a first end 3475 and anopposite second end 3472. The end 3475 is preferably shaped and sized tofit within the channel 3411 defined along the brush head 3414 andpreferably having a similar configuration as the guide wall 3415. Themovable bristle carrier 3470 also includes a ridged member 3476 alongits underside, sized to engage the channel 3411 defined along the brushhead 3414. The distal end 3464 of the drive shaft component 3466 isengaged with the bristle carrier 3470. Preferably, the end 3464 isaccessible through aperture 3403 defined in the brush head 3414.

The bristle carrier tip 3480 includes a plurality of apertures 3484adapted for receiving and retaining-bristles or bristle tufts (notshown). The bristle carrier tip 3480 also includes a first end 3485adapted to face the end 3472 of the movable bristle carrier 3470 andportions of the guide wall 3415 of brush head 3414. The bristle carriertip 3480 also includes an opposite end 3482 and may further include aridged member 183 along its underside, to engage and reside within thechannel 3411 defined within the brush head 3414. The ridged member 3483is preferably configured in a similar fashion as the ridged member 3476of the bristle carrier 3470. Upon assembly, the bristle carrier tip 3480is secured to the distal end of the brush head 3414.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 operates in a similar fashion asthe previously described embodiment of the toothbrush 3300. Uponcompletion or closure of an electrical circuit between the motor 3450and a power source, the drive shaft 3452 and drive gear 3454 rotate.Such rotation causes rotation of the crown gear 3456 and imparts areciprocating motion to the drive shaft members or components 3461 and3466. Engagement between the drive shaft component 3466 and the bristlecarrier 3470 imparts a translating or reciprocating movement to thecarrier 3470.

The present invention toothbrushes, and particularly the embodiments ofthe toothbrush 3300 and 3400, have been found to operate utilizingremarkably minor amounts of power. And surprisingly, these electrictoothbrushes provide comparable brushing efficacy and performance asother commercially available toothbrushes. These dramatic gains arebelieved to result from a combination of one or more of the followingfactors: (1) the use of translating or reciprocating motion for themovable bristle carrier during operation of the present inventiontoothbrushes; (2) the selection of the degree or extent of motion of thebristle carrier, i.e. its “stroke”; (3) the particular type of motorutilized in the toothbrushes; (4) the operating speed employed by themotor; (5) the gear ratio between a motor drive gear and a crown gearused in the drive mechanism of the present invention toothbrushes; (6)the particular assembly of components used in the drive mechanism andthe relatively few number of components; (7) the use of static bristlesin conjunction with movable bristles; and (8) the particular bristleconfiguration employed along the brush head.

The present invention approach of using a translating plate to impartmotion to a plurality of bristles has been found to provide significantimprovement in reducing energy consumption and operating current andvoltage requirements as compared to currently known electric toothbrushassemblies. For example, comparative tests between (i) Assignee'srelatively energy efficient and hugely popular Crest7 Spin Brush7 usingan oscillating spin head and (ii) a, translating or reciprocatingbristle carrier according to the present invention, reveals thefollowing:

TABLE 2 Translating Spin Head Plate Voltage to Initiate Movement >1.8V >1.28 V (Under 1 lb. Loading) Current Draw at 3.0 V 0.8 A  0.5 A(Under 1 lb. Loading)

The data presented in Table 2 illustrates that an embodiment of thetoothbrush according to the present invention, utilizing a translatingplate or bristle carrier, requires significantly less voltage(approximately 28%) and less amperage (approximately 37%) than a leadingcommercially successful toothbrush utilizing an oscillating or spin headconfiguration.

Another aspect of the high efficiency drive mechanisms according to thepresent invention relates to the stroke length of the movable bristlecarrier, such as bristle carriers 3370 and 3470. The preferredparameters of the movement of the reciprocating bristle carrier are asfollows. Preferably, the reciprocating carrier has a stroke length atleast about 0.5 mm, more preferably at least about 1.0 mm, morepreferably at least about 1.25 mm, and most preferably at least about1.5 mm; and less than about 5 mm, more preferably less than 3.5 mm, morepreferably less than 2.5 mm, and most preferably less than 1.7 mm. Itwill be appreciated that the present invention drive mechanisms mayutilize stroke lengths greater or lesser than these various preferredvalues. Although not wishing to be bound to any particular theory, it isbelieved that excessive amounts of power, i.e. battery power, areconsumed when stroke length is excessively long. And, if stroke lengthis too short, brushing efficacy is greatly reduced. As previously noted,the direction of movement of the bristle carrier is parallel with thelongitudinal axis of the toothbrush.

The motor used in the embodiments of the toothbrush described herein ispreferably particularly adapted to provide a high efficiency powersource for the drive mechanism. A standard motor may be modified byusing less windings and reducing the voltage requirements to about 1.5volts. Typical standard motors exhibit general current drawcharacteristics as follows: Without loading, a draw of about 1.06 ampsis required, and with loading, a draw of at least 1.0 amp is required.The preferred embodiment motors used in the electric toothbrushembodiments described herein draw less than 0.3 amps without a load, andapproximately 0.4 to about 0.6 amps under a load. The “loads” referredto are typical operating loads placed upon the motor when operating theembodiments of the toothbrushes described herein during routinebrushing.

The preferred operating speed for the motors used in the embodiments ofthe toothbrush described herein ranges from about 1500 rpm to about 3500rpm, and is most preferably about 2500 rpm. An rpm of 2500 providesabout 1250 stroke cycles per minute as measured at the reciprocatingbristle carrier when utilizing the preferred embodiment drive mechanismsdescribed herein. These operating speeds are given with respect to themotor engaging the drive mechanism, however, no brushing load beingplaced upon the bristle carrier. It will be appreciated that uponapplication of a load to the motor, the operating speed of the motor maybe reduced by about 30% to about 35%. These values are estimates and theextent of reduction in operating speed will depend upon a host offactors.

This relationship of motor operating speed and bristle carrier strokespeed is an indication of the preferred gear ratio between the drivegear engaged to the drive shaft of the motor (such as drive gear 3354 inFIG. 48 or drive gear 3454 in FIG. 49) and the crown gear (such as crowngear 3356 in FIG. 48 or crown gear 3456 in FIG. 49) to which the driveshaft is engaged at the offset member. The preferred ratio is from about1:1 to about 3:1, and most preferably about 2:1. Therefore, at this mostpreferred ratio, for every two revolutions of the motor drive shaft, thecrown gear rotates once. The noted preferred gear ratio of 2:1 has beenfound to provide a desirable combination of range of motion and speed asmeasured at the bristle carrier to provide excellent brushingcharacteristics in conjunction with an acceptable level of powerconsumption.

The use of the noted crown gear in the preferred embodiment drivemechanisms described herein is particularly desirable since that type ofdrive component, and its orientation shown in the referenced figures,requires relatively few components and enables a relatively smallhousing to be utilized since the resulting overall volume of the drivemechanism is small. The preferred crown gear used in the drive mechanismdescribed herein utilizes from about 8 or 10 to about 40 gear teeth.Most preferably, the crown gear has about 20 gear teeth. This is arelatively small number of teeth for the given size and application ofthe crown gear. This results in a relatively tall profile for the gearteeth of the brown gear. Accordingly, the preferred crown gears of thepresent invention utilize an offset member that must extend above theheight of the gear teeth. This is necessary so that sufficient clearanceis provided for the gear teeth of the crown gear. The crown gear isrotatably supported by an axle having a height such that the drive shaftengaged with the offset member is aligned with the bristle carrier. Thisparticular arrangement and combination of components provides a drivemechanism utilizing a remarkably few number of components. The fewer thenumber of components, the more efficient is the transfer of motion andgreater ease in assembly and production.

Referring to FIG. 50, a portion of a preferred embodiment drivemechanism is shown. A motor 3550 providing a powered drive shaft 3552and a drive gear 3554 secured to the shaft 3552 is engaged with a crowngear 3556. The crown gear 3556 is rotatably supported at its center 3557by an axle 3558. An outwardly extending offset member 3555 is providedalong an outer face 3551 of the crown gear 3556. The member 3555 isdisposed radially outward from the center 3557 of the crown gear 3556. Adrive shaft 3560 is engaged at its end 3562 with the offset member 3555.Upon rotation of the drive shaft 3552 and gear 3554, the crown gear 3556rotates about axle 3558. That movement in turn imparts a reciprocatingmotion to the drive shaft 3560.

FIG. 51 is a side elevational view of the portion of the preferredembodiment drive mechanism depicted in FIG. 50. FIG. 51 illustrates afeature of the preferred embodiment drive mechanisms, that of theelevated orientation of the reciprocating drive shaft with respect tothe crown gear. Specifically, it can be seen that the gear teeth of thecrown gear 3556 have a profile or overall height shown as height G. Theoffset member 3555 is engaged with the drive shaft 3560 such that adistance S is maintained between the shaft 3560 and the gear teeth. Mostpreferably, the distance S is also the distance necessary to maintainalignment between the offset member 3555 and the bristle carrierdisposed on the brush head. Most preferably, the drive shaft 3560 is theonly drive component extending between and engaging those components.

As previously noted, another aspect of the embodiments of the toothbrushaccording to the invention, and particularly, of the drive mechanismsdescribed herein, is that a relatively few number of drive componentsare utilized. This is readily apparent from the exploded views in FIGS.48 and 49. This design strategy reduces the number of interconnectionsand engagements between drive components and so a more direct assemblyof drive components is achieved. This approach greatly simplifiesassembly, reduces overall costs of production, and leads to a morecommercially viable consumer product.

Additionally, the use of static bristles in combination with a pluralityof movable bristles, assists in reducing the overall load on thereciprocating bristle carrier. FIGS. 52-54 illustrate this feature ingreater detail. FIG. 52 illustrates a portion of an embodiment of thetoothbrush according to the invention 3600 comprising a brush head 3614,a neck 3616, a movable bristle carrier 3670, and an end component 3680.The movable bristle carrier 3670 supports and retains a plurality ofbristles 3650, designated herein as movable bristles. These are shown indashed lines for clarity. The end component 3680 supports and retains aplurality of bristles 3662, designated herein as stationary bristles.Additionally, the brush head 3614 supports and retains a plurality ofbristles 3660, also designated herein as stationary bristles, thatpreferably, are disposed along the periphery of the movable bristlecarrier 3670 and the bristles 3650 disposed thereon. The stationarybristles 3662 and 3660 are also shown in dashed lines.

The bristle configuration shown in FIG. 52 is significant in that theplurality of bristles that are stationary, i.e. bristles 3660 and 3662,essentially surround or partly so, the movable bristles 3650 retained onthe movable bristle carrier 3670. This configuration has been found toreduce the load otherwise applied to the bristles 3650 and movablebristle carrier 3670 during brushing and operation of the toothbrush3600. This characteristic is believed to result from the stationarybristles 3660 and 3662 accommodating a portion of the brushing load,otherwise placed upon the bristles 3650 and carrier 3670. Thedistribution of the brushing load between the stationary bristles 3660and 3662, and the movable bristles 3650, is determined by a number offactors including, but not limited to: (i) the relative heights of thestationary and movable bristles, (ii) the materials forming thestationary and movable bristles, (iii) the profile of the brushingsurface resulting from the distal ends of the stationary and movablebristles, (iv) the respective densities (or bristles per unit area) ofthe stationary and movable bristles, and (v) the arrangement of thestationary bristles and movable bristles. By adjusting one or more ofthese factors, the load applied to the movable bristle carrier duringbrushing may be reduced by, for example, increasing the relative heightof the stationary bristles or decreasing the height of the movablebristles. The load applied to the movable bristle carrier may also bereduced by increasing the density of the stationary bristles disposedaround the movable carrier. The load may also be reduced by selectingparticular materials that exhibit a high degree of stiffness for thestationary bristles as compared to the movable bristles.

FIG. 53 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush according tothe invention 3700 comprising a brush head 3714, a neck 3716, a movablebristle carrier 3770, a plurality of movable bristles 3750 supported andretained on the carrier 3770, a first plurality of stationary bristles3760 disposed on the brush head 3714, and a second plurality ofstationary bristles 3762 disposed on the end of the brush head 3714.This toothbrush embodiment 3700 utilizes a bristle configuration inwhich a large number of stationary bristles, such as 3760 and 3762, aredisposed around the movable bristles 3750, or substantially so. It willbe noted that the group of stationary bristles 3762 are primarilydisposed along the end of the brush head 3714. And, the other group ofstationary bristles 3760 generally extend around the remaining peripheryof the movable bristle carrier 3770. This arrangement has been found tooffer good brushing efficacy and significant reductions in brushingloads otherwise applied to the bristles 3750 and thus, the bristlecarrier 3770.

FIG. 54 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush according tothe invention 3800 comprising a brush head 3814, a neck 3816, a movablebristle carrier 3870, a plurality of movable bristles 3850 supported andretained thereon, and a plurality of stationary bristles 3860 extendinggenerally around the periphery of the bristle carrier 3870. In thisembodiment, the stationary bristles 3860 extend around at least amajority of the outer periphery of the bristle carrier 3870. Preferably,the bristles 3860 extend continuously, or substantially so, around themovable bristle carrier 3870 and the movable bristles 3850 disposedthereon. It is not necessary that the stationary bristles 3860 bedisposed in a region adjacent the movable bristle carrier that isopposite the distal end of the brush head 3814. This region is shown inFIG. 54 as region 3864. This particular bristle arrangement has beenfound to offer good brushing performance and significant reductions inbrushing loads otherwise applied to the bristles 3850 and thus, thebristle carrier 3870.

FIGS. 53 and 54 also illustrate brush heads utilizing different bristledensities along their distal ends, such as in the region of a bristlecarrier tip, such as tip 3380 in FIG. 48. These regions are shown indashed lines. The dashed region of FIG. 53 contains six bristle tuftsper unit area whereas FIG. 52 contains five bristle tufts per unit area.

Another significant aspect that the present invention provides is aunique engagement assembly comprising a gear that is driven by theelectric toothbrush motor and a drive shaft that powers one or moremovable bristle carriers. This engagement assembly efficiently convertsrotary motion of the gear to reciprocating motion of the drive shaft.The assembly operates and performs the noted conversion in a remarkablyquiet and smooth manner.

This preferred engagement assembly is illustrated in FIGS. 55-60. FIG.55 illustrates a preferred embodiment assembly 4000 comprising a driveshaft 4100 and a gear 4200. The drive shaft 4100 includes a shaftportion 4110 and a distal end having a partially enclosed elongated end4120 that, as described below, provides a unique set of surfaces forengagement with cam surfaces of the gear 4200. More specifically, FIG.55 illustrates an oval-shaped aperture 4125 defined within a centralregion of the partially enclosed elongated end 4120. The partiallyenclosed end 4120 includes an end cover 4122 which defines the aperture4125. Disposed about the periphery of the end cover 4122 is an end wall4126. Together, the cover 4122 and the wall 4126 provide a partialenclosure (not shown in FIG. 55) that receives certain components of thedrive gear 4200.

FIG. 55 also illustrates the preferred gear 4200 of the assembly 4000.The gear 4200 is similar to the gear 806 shown in FIG. 12, gear 3356shown in FIG. 48, gear 3456 shown in FIG. 49, and gear 3556 shown inFIGS. 50 and 51. That is, the mounting and function of the gear 4200 issimilar to the mounting and function of those noted gears. However, thegear 4200 utilizes a unique collection of camming surfaces.Specifically, gear 4200 includes a plurality of gear teeth 4210 disposedabout its periphery. A drive gear such as affixed to an electric motoris preferably engaged or otherwise coupled to the gear 4200, andspecifically to the gear teeth 4210. A circular medial base 4220 extendsalong an outward face of the gear 4200 and between opposite regions ofthe gear teeth 4210. Disposed on the base 4220 and extending outwardtherefrom is a first cam 4230 providing a circular cam surface 4232extending about the periphery of the cam 4230. Extending from the firstcam 4230 is a second cam 4240. The second cam 4240 provides a circularcam surface 4242 extending about the periphery of the second cam 4240.It will be appreciated that the center of the second cam 4240 coincideswith the center of the base 4220, and the center of the gear 4200. Thus,upon rotation of the gear 4200, such as about the axis of rotation Ashown in FIG. 55, the second cam 4240 and the base 4220, rotate aboutthe same axis, i.e. axis A. The center of the first cam 4230 is shown inFIG. 55 as axis B, is spaced from, yet preferably parallel to, axis A.

FIG. 56 is a top planar view of the gear 4200. FIG. 56 illustrates thearrangement of the first cam 4230 and the second cam 4240 with respectto each other, and the center of rotation A of the gear 4200. Again, itwill be noted that the center of the circular first cam designated ascenter B in FIG. 56 is spaced apart from the center (or axis ofrotation) A.

FIG. 57 is a side elevational view of the gear 4200. FIG. 57 furtherillustrates the configuration and arrangement of the gear teeth 4210,base 4220, the first cam 4230 and its cam surface 4232, the second cam4240 and its cam surface 4242.

FIG. 58 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the assembly 4000illustrating the elongated end 4120 of the drive shaft 4100 engaged withthe gear 4200. Specifically, it can be seen that the second cam 4240 isdisposed within the aperture 4125 defined in the end 4120. And, thefirst cam 4230 is enclosed by and received within the end 4120.Preferably, the cam surface 4242 of the second cam 4240 engages andcontacts portions of the surface of the elongated end 4120 that definesthe aperture 4125. And, preferably, the cam surface 4232 of the firstcam 4230 engages and contacts portions of the interior and specifically,portions of an interior wall 4122 defined along the interior of theelongated end 4120.

FIG. 59 illustrates the underside, i.e. the side of the elongated end4120 of the drive shaft 4100 that faces the base 4220 of the gear 4200.FIG. 59 further illustrates the interior wall 4122 which the cam surface4232 of the first cam 4230 engages when the gear 4200 and drive shaft4100 are engaged to form the assembly 4000. FIG. 59 also illustrates theorientation of the aperture 4125. FIG. 59 additionally illustrates twodimensions S and T as follows.

Dimension S is the minimum span or entrance dimension of the aperture4125. Since the second cam 4240 is received within the aperture 4125,the diameter of the cam 4240 should be slightly less than dimension S.Alternatively, dimension S should be slightly greater than the diameterof the cam 4240.

Dimension T is the minimum span or entrance dimension of the oval shapedinterior wall 4122. Since the first cam 4230 is received within theregion generally bounded by the interior wall 4122, the diameter of thecam 4230 should be slightly less than dimension T. Alternatively,dimension T should be slightly greater than the diameter of the cam4230.

FIG. 59 also illustrates a preferred orientation of the aperture 4125within the end 4120. As can be seen, the major axis of the oval shapedaperture 4125 depicted as axis D, is preferably parallel and mostpreferably co-extensive with, the longitudinal axis of the shaft portion4110 of the drive shaft 4100, depicted as axis C.

FIG. 59 additionally illustrates that the aperture 4125 is preferablyoval-shaped and oriented at right angles to the oval-shaped interiorregion defined by the interior wall 4122. That is, the major axis of theoval shaped aperture 4125 is preferably perpendicular to the major axisof the oval shaped interior region defined by the wall 4122.

FIG. 60 is a top, planar view of the assembly 4000 further illustratingthe arrangement, orientation, and configuration of the drive shaft 4100and the gear 4200. Upon rotation of the gear 4200 about axis A, such asin the direction of arrow E, the center of the first cam 4230 is rotatedabout axis A generally along the circular path G. Circular path Gresults from the first cam 4230 being displaced about the axis A as gear4200 rotates. It will be appreciated that the radius of the circularpath G corresponds to the amount of offset or spacing between the centerpoints A and B shown in FIG. 55.

As gear 4200 rotates, thus causing the first cam 4230 to be displacedabout axis A, along the circular path G, a portion of the cam surface4232 of the first cam 4230 engages various regions of the interior wall4122. This results in the end 4120 being linearly translated back andforth with respect to the center point of gear 4200 and axis A.Restated, this has the effect of causing the second cam 4240 to belinearly translated back and forth within the aperture 4125. However, itwill be appreciated that since the gear 4200 is essentially fixed at itspoint of rotation, i.e. axis A, it is the end 4120 and thus the driveshaft 4100 that is translated back and forth. The rotation of gear 4200in the direction of arrow E causes reciprocation of the drive shaft 4100in the direction of arrows F shown in FIG. 60.

The preferred embodiment assembly 4000 efficiently converts rotarymotion of the gear 4200 into 100% or substantially so, reciprocal motionof the drive shaft 4100. That is, there is none or only an exceedinglyminor degree of motion in a direction other than along the longitudinalaxis C of the drive shaft 4100. This characteristic is beneficial inthat upon high operating speeds, vibration of the assembly is minimal,or at least maintained to acceptable levels.

In addition to its high operating efficiency characteristics, theembodiments of the toothbrushes described herein also provide relativelyhigh brushing forces. An indication of this is that the embodiments ofthe toothbrush described herein provide a powered and relativelyconstant reciprocating stroke motion at their brush head even uponapplication of heavy loads. For instance, toothbrushes according to thepresent invention may operate under loads as high as 30 lbs applied totheir brush heads and reciprocating bristle carriers.

An example of the relative high efficiency and low power consumption ofthe preferred embodiment drive mechanisms described herein, relates tobattery usage. Nearly all comparable currently available electrictoothbrushes require two (2) AA batteries for their operation. Theembodiments of electric toothbrushes described herein preferably requireonly one (1) AA battery. It is remarkable and surprising that thepresent invention toothbrushes provide the same, or substantially thesame, force and power characteristics at their brush heads, i.e.measured at the bristle ends, as comparable commercially availablebrushes; and yet only require approximately one-half of the power orbattery requirements as those same brushes. It will be appreciated thatin no way are the present invention toothbrushes limited to utilizingonly a single (AA) battery. The present invention toothbrushes mayutilize a wide variety of batteries, battery configurations, and powersources. The references to (AA) batteries are provided for ease inunderstanding and further describing the present invention toothbrushesand their low energy consumption characteristics. Generally, the presentinvention toothbrushes preferably operate from a voltage source of fromabout 0.5 volts to about 2.5 volts. More preferably, the presentinvention toothbrushes operate from a power source providing 1.5 volts.Most preferably, such a power source is rechargeable. Of course, thepresent invention toothbrushes may utilize disposable batteries. This“low energy consumption” feature is an aspect of the present inventiontoothbrushes that is particularly appealing from a communicabilitystandpoint.

An indication of this low energy consumption feature of the presentinvention toothbrushes is illustrated in the total run time of thetoothbrushes. A testing apparatus was assembled in which a fixture and aone (1) pound weight were enclosed in a housing. A toothbrush that is tobe tested is secured in the fixture, with its bristles directed upwards.The one pound weight is then placed on the brushing surface of thebrush, i.e. the upwardly directed distal ends of the bristles. Thesurface of the weight corresponds to that of a typical dental surface.The toothbrush is then activated and the total elapsed time is measureduntil the toothbrush stops operating. Preferably, toothbrushes accordingto the present invention generally operate at least about 100 minutes,more preferably at least 120 minutes, more preferably at least 140minutes, more preferably at least 160 minutes, and more preferably atleast 180 minutes. It is contemplated that the present inventiontoothbrushes may operate under the described conditions up to as long as210 to 220 minutes, and even longer. The foregoing noted testingconditions utilize a single (AA) battery. Generally, these total runtimes are measured using a voltage source of at least about 0.9 volts toabout 2.5 volts, and employing a reciprocating bristle carrier havingthe noted stroke lengths and speeds.

As previously noted, an additional benefit of the embodiments of thetoothbrush described herein is a relatively simple assembly. Thisresults in reduced manufacturing costs. Furthermore, it is contemplatedthat the preferred embodiment drive assemblies described herein willprovide increased reliability due to their simple and straightforwarddesign. And, the relatively few number of components employed in thesedrive assemblies further reduces the potential for failures at theirinterconnections.

In the event a pinned engagement assembly is utilized, it is mostpreferred that the movable bristle carrier define an aperture accessiblefrom its underside, similar to aperture 3254 illustrated in FIG. 47.Such aperture may extend only partially through the thickness of thebristle carrier (as shown in FIG. 47), or may extend entirely throughthat thickness to the other, top side of the carrier. The drive shaft,and specifically, the distal end, such as end 3206 shown in FIG. 47, isformed to either have a pin or pin-like extension from its distal end,or be adapted to engage a separate pin component. The pin (either aseparate component or formed as part of the shaft) is fitted within theaperture defined in the bristle carrier. Other engagement assemblies arecontemplated for use in conjunction with the present inventionincluding, but not limited to, multiple pin engagement assemblies,latching mechanisms, threaded fasteners, and assemblies which areaffixed together with adhesive or sonic welding.

It is contemplated that the various carriers described herein may bereadily replaceable, and preferably, interchangeable with othercarriers. Thus, a user could select a particular carrier from anassortment of different types and configurations. Upon selection, theuser could readily attach that carrier to a desired toothbrush.Furthermore, it is envisioned that so-called variety packs or samplepacks, each containing various types of carriers could be providedseparately or in conjunction with an electric toothbrush. For example,if the movable bristle carriers described herein utilize a readilyreleasable engagement mechanism for connection to the drive mechanism, acollections or assortment of movable carriers could be promotedseparately or in conjunction with the electric toothbrush.

It will be appreciated that any of the features and aspects of any ofthe embodiments of the toothbrush described herein may be combined withone or more of the features and aspects of other embodiments describedherein.

The present invention may utilize features, aspects, components,materials, and characteristics from one or more of the followingpublished patent applications or issued patents: WO 01/29128; U.S. Pat.No. 6,000,083; U.S. Des. Pat. No. 432,312; U.S. Des. Pat. No. 433,814;U.S. Pat. No. 6,178,579; U.S. Pat. No. 6,189,693; U.S. Pat. No.6,311,837; U.S. published patent application 2002/0032941; U.S. Pat. No.6,360,395; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,371,294; all of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

Other than the particular materials noted or described herein, thevarious embodiments of the toothbrush and any components may be formedfrom conventional materials typically utilized for producing electrictoothbrushes. Generally, the handle, neck, brush head, and otherstructural parts or components are formed from polypropylene. Polymericblends for these parts or components may be used such as for exampleblends of ABS and one or more of Celcon™, Acetal™, and/or Delrin™. Awide array of self-lubricating materials are particularly preferred forforming drive train components.

The present invention has been described with reference to particularembodiments. Modifications and alterations will occur to others uponreading and understanding this specification. Although certainarrangements for the static and movable bristles have been shown anddescribed, the present invention includes a variety of otherconfigurations. It is intended that all such modifications andalterations are included insofar as they come within the scope of theappended claims or equivalents thereof.

All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention are, inrelevant part, incorporated herein by reference; the citation of anydocument is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior artwith respect to the present invention.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

1-19. (canceled)
 20. A low energy consumption electric toothbrushcomprising: (a) a housing assembly including a brush head, a handle, anda neck extending between the brush head and the handle, the housingdefining a hollow interior cavity; (b) a movable bristle carrierdisposed on the brush head; (c) a motor providing a powered rotatingshaft, a drive gear affixed to the shaft, and a power source inelectrical communication with the motor and disposed in the hollowinterior cavity, (d) a crown gear rotatably supported in the hollowinterior cavity and oriented such that the axis of rotation of the crowngear is perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the motor and the drivegear, the crown gear configured and engaged with the drive gear of themotor such that the crown gear completes one revolution for a number,from one to three, of revolutions of the motor, the crown gear including(i) a first cam member extending from a face of the crown gear, thefirst cam having a center offset from the axis of rotation of the crowngear and (ii) a second cam member extending from a face of the first cammember, the second cam member having an axis of rotation co-extensivewith the axis of rotation of the crown gear; (e) a drive shaft having afirst end and a second opposite end, the first end engaged with thefirst cam member and the second cam member of the crown gear, and thesecond end engaged with the movable bristle carrier; (f) a firstplurality of bristles retained on the movable bristle carrier; (g)second plurality of stationary bristles retained on the at least onestatic bristle carrier; (h) wherein upon operation of the motor, thecrown gear is rotated, thereby imparting a reciprocating motion to thedrive shaft and to the movable bristle carrier disposed on the brushhead.